The therapeutic effects of music therapy on postpartum depression and maternal well being
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Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a widely prevalent condition affecting mothers worldwide. This depressive disorder can manifest as a range of different symptoms including fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances, guilt, lack of interest in the baby and in severe cases, thoughts of suicide or harming others. Furthermore, this condition can lead to impairment in function and profound emotional distress for the individual. Members of the family including the patient’s significant other, children, and friends can all be affected by this situation indirectly or directly. Current standard of care for PPD includes psychotherapy and medication management with antidepressants. While these treatments are effective, they may not be preferred by the patient due to personal circumstances such as lack of time, issues with accessibility, and concerns of medication side effects.Research on alternative therapies for treating postpartum depression is insufficient and thus, little is known regarding their impact on outcomes. Music therapy is a safe and cost-effective method for treating physical, cognitive, and emotional health concerns by reducing anxiety, pain, and improving morality. The study proposed in this paper will evaluate the effects of music therapy on maternal health and reducing symptoms of postpartum depression by comparing standardized depression scales before and after treatment through a randomized control trial. The experiment will be composed of a control group receiving standard of care and an intervention group receiving standard of care with the addition of daily music therapy. Additionally, the study will assess the impact of music therapy on maternal-infant bonding by observing interactions pre and post-treatment.
Description
2024