Background: The transition to motherhood is a significant life event that can be both exciting and challenging, often complicated by postpartum depression. Understanding the awareness, risk factors, and support systems related to postpartum depression is crucial for improving the quality of life among new mothers. Objective: This study aimed to explore the quality of life, awareness of postpartum depression, level of depression, and perception of support among primipara postpartum mothers in selected Rural Health Units (RHUs) of Lanao del Sur, southern Philippines, while also examining the correlation between awareness of postpartum depression, perception of support, and quality of life. Methods: A descriptive-predictive study design was employed. A stratified random sampling method was used to select 356 respondents from a population of 4,694. Data were collected using questionnaires, including a self-developed survey for postpartum depression awareness and perceived social support, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale for depression levels, and the WHOQOL-BREF for assessing quality of life. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were applied to interpret the data. Results: The majority of respondents were young, married women with diverse educational and income backgrounds. Moderate awareness of postpartum depression was noted, with many respondents reporting mild depression. Strong support systems involving family, friends, healthcare providers, and peer groups were identified as essential in managing postpartum depression. Regression analysis indicated that awareness of postpartum depression (β = 0.400, p <0.001) positively influenced quality of life, whereas higher risk for postpartum depression (β = -0.229, p <0.001) was associated with reduced quality of life. Conclusion: These findings emphasize the need to enhance awareness and support systems to effectively manage postpartum depression, thereby improving the quality of life of postpartum mothers at risk. Improving health information dissemination and healthcare services is critical for addressing postpartum depression in rural settings.
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