What Low-Income, Depressed Mothers Need From Mental Health Care:
Overcoming Treatment Barriers From Their Perspective
Sonja DeCou, ABD
Chair: Hilary Vidair, Ph.D.
Defense: September 4th at 2pm, Lodge B, room 114
Abstract: It is crucial to develop treatment programs tailored to the needs of low-income, depressed mothers, as untreated maternal depression has devastating consequences for the mother and her children (Goodman, 2007). These mothers’ rates of depression are high, yet few receive mental health care (Ferro et al., 2000). Several barriers have been identified (Alvidrez & Azocar, 1999), but current assistance is based on what mental health professionals (MHPs) believe is helpful, or require participation in an existing treatment. The purpose of the current study was to learn what low-income, depressed mothers need from mental health care to overcome personal barriers to treatment. Twelve such mothers participated in individual interviews, using Auerbach and Silverstein (2003)’s qualitative methodology. A member check was conducted to validate results. Data were analyzed for themes, which were organized into theoretical constructs based on existing theories (e.g., Unified Theory of Behavior) and treatment strategies (e.g., from Dialectical Behavior Therapy). A theory was developed regarding facilitators and inhibitors of mothers’ intentions to enter treatment, entering treatment, and treatment retention. It is theorized that deciding to enter treatment requires fostering positive attitudes, expectations, and emotions about treatment, and reconciling an image of self-sufficiency. Teaching knowledge and skills, removing environmental constraints, mitigating interfering habits, and highlighting the saliency of treatment appear to help mothers enter treatment. Treatment retention can likely be facilitated by MHPs who possess specific characteristics (e.g., accepting, non judgmental, genuine), and treatments that are change oriented, direct, and include an engagement session. Offering what low-income, depressed mothers want could engage and retain them in mental health treatment.