Depression Among Tunisian Young Mothers

Abstract

Introduction

In the Tunisian cultural context, the mother is in charge of childcare, housekeeping and the well-being of the whole family, which can lead to exhaustion and depression.

Objective

To estimate the frequency of depression among mothers aged between 20 and 40 years, its consequences and the possible solutions.

Method

Transversal study using an anonymous questionnaire of 26 questions published through social media sites to mother with young aged children.

Results

Three hundred and twenty-seven mothers participated in the study: 20% of them aged between 20 and 30 years and 80% between 30 and 40. Ninety-seven percent of the participants were married; 96% of them had university education. Seventy-nine percent of them were working mothers and 50% of them did not get any help in childcare. Forty-two percent of the participants had only 1 child, 49% had 2 children, 8% 3 children and only 1 mother had 4 children. Depressive symptoms were present in 73% of the participants and were significantly higher among mothers aged between 30 and 40. However, depression was certain in only 36% of them and there was no significant difference between the two age groups. Eighteen percent of the participants noticed an increase in consummation of cigarettes, 31% resorted to tranquilizers, 25% needed sick leaves, and 2% resorted to alcohol use. Less working hours was suggested as a solution in 36% cases, sharing house chores in 30% cases.

Conclusion

Depression among young mother is a public health problem in Tunisia. It is underestimated and not always treated, which can have a serious impact on the whole family well-being.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.