Table 1.
Coding categories.
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Family and Friends: content related to interactions with close family members and friends in terms of managing the peripartum period and/or depression symptoms. | “My husband doesn't understand when I become clingy with my baby girl but I feel happier or more at ease when she's in my arms” (Post # 71) “I've talked to my in-laws a couple times, but they're the type to overreact and go too far if they knew I had PPD. They wouldn't be able to leave me alone. So that I'll probably keep to myself. It's just a very frustrating situation.” (Post # 87) |
| Medications: content related to statements or queries about side effects or others' personal experiences with PPD medications. | “Has anyone started Abilify and had it affect their milk supply?” (Post #116) “Expecting my second baby in the next 2–3 weeks. Had very difficult time with Post-Partum depression the first time and huge delay in getting on Zoloft till dear daughter was 4–5 months. I know it isn't a guarantee to get the second time but curious what others experience once and if any recommends I go on meds shortly after delivery?” (Post # 96) |
| Symptom Disclosure: a user explicitly describing the depression or anxiety symptoms she/he is experiencing. | “I have anxious spells- with severe symptoms where I feel like I'm in a dream, panicky, heart racing, thoughts that I know I don't actually think. This can go on all day.” (Post #12) “For me it was pretty obvious. A month pp I was crying all the time, disliked my child, was not eating and just felt miserable.” (Post #27) |
| Social Support: content where a user provides support to their peers. Social support can be of an emotional nature (words of encouragement and kindness), an appraisal (feedback on a situation), an instrument (a practical tool such as a relaxation technique), or informational (educational experiences or resources). | “[…] believe me you are not alone. I think you should get a second opinion honestly. I wish you the best of luck. Maybe try counseling too. Hang in there, you will be great!!!” (Post # 102) “Honestly I think a mommy group or just getting out with family or friends will help you tremendously. Maybe even a therapist. Get out a bit.” (Post # 93) |
| Breastfeeding: Information on the interactions between mental health, medications, and the breastfeeding process. | “When I stopped breastfeeding it was like all this pressure went away and I felt more relaxed and I could concentrate on getting better.” (Post # 18) “I truly believe that the breastfeeding had a role in it all. I'm still struggling but nowhere near as much as I was while still breastfeeding.” (Post # 14) |