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Abstract

Background/AimsMental health can influence the likelihood that a woman will initiate and continue breastfeeding behaviour that is associated with improved infant and maternal health. Mental health outcomes are associated with variables such as optimism and coping. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between coping, optimism and mental health, and their impact on breastfeeding duration.MethodsA total of 612 women who had breastfed completed an online questionnaire comprising the hospital anxiety and depression scale, cognitive emotional regulation questionnaire, brief coping orientation to problems experienced inventory and life orientation test. Data were analysed using correlations, ordinal linear regression and mediation analysis.ResultsThere was a direct relationship between breastfeeding duration and depression but no direct relationship between duration and anxiety. A mediation analysis showed no mediating between breastfeeding duration and depression. Optimism did mediate the relationship between anxiety and duration, with optimism being associated with reduced anxiety and increased duration.ConclusionsThe findings highlight the importance of support for mothers while breastfeeding to improve mental health outcomes and foster coping strategies, such as optimism.

DOI

10.12968/bjom.2024.32.6.284

Publication Date

2024-05-29

Publication Title

British Journal of Midwifery

ISSN

0969-4900

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