Understanding Experiences of Social Support as Coping Resources among Immigrant and Refugee Women with Postpartum Depression: An Integrative Literature Review

Abstract

Lack of social support increases the risk of postpartum depression (PPD), especially among immigrant and refugee women. In this integrative literature review, I aim to synthesize the current state of knowledge on social support experiences among immigrant and refugee women with PPD. Conceptualization of social support as coping resources occurs through Stewart’s coping theory. Eleven primary sources were located using Whittemore and Knafl’s review methods. These methods are philosophically underpinned by Racine’s postcolonial feminist lens. In synthesizing literature located, themes were generated and include the following: maintaining cultural identity, connecting with a community, connecting with spirit (subtheme), relational space imparted by health care providers, and seeking and exchanging knowledge. Co-existing issues emerged from this review and capture broad determinants influential in shaping immigrant and refugee experiences of social support. These included: experience of poverty, connecting to maintain gender-driven roles, and experience of trauma and abuse. Interconnectedness of these themes and issues are depicted in a data display to demonstrate complexity. Drawing on these findings, I propose practice implications for nurses working in psychiatric and public health facilities. I also offer future research ideas and policy development recommendations based on the generated findings of this review.

Disclosure statement

I, the author, report no conflicts of interest. I alone am responsible for the content and writing of this paper.

Author statement

This article has not been published elsewhere and has not been submitted for publication elsewhere.

Compliance with ethical standards

No ethical review process was taken due to the methodology.

Notes

1 Drawn from Fossey et al. (2002) and Joanna Briggs Institute (2011)