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Effectiveness of Social Media-Based Telemedicine Approach in Treating Patients with Postpartum Depression in Imo State

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Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent but underdiagnosed maternal mental health condition, particularly in low-resource settings such as Imo State, Nigeria. This study examined the effectiveness of social media-based telemedicine in diagnosing, treating, and managing PPD among postpartum women in Imo State. It explores the extent of user exposure levels, alongside the effectiveness of social media-based telemedicine practice and challenges encountered during implementation. This study adopted the survey research design. Findings indicate a high engagement rate among digitally literate mothers, especially those residing in urban centers, with notable improvements in emotional wellbeing, peer interaction, and access to expert support. However, challenges such as misinformation, digital health literacy disparities, cultural stigma, and infrastructural limitations persist, affecting overall impact and sustainability. The study underscores the need for culturally tailored, moderated, and policy-backed social media-based telemedicine programs. It further highlights the significance of improving digital health literacy and expanding infrastructure to bridge rural-urban disparities. Ultimately, the research provides empirical evidence to support the integration of digital health tools into Nigeria’s maternal healthcare system, offering actionable insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organisations committed to improving maternal mental health outcomes in under-resourced settings.

Keywords & Additional Information

Keywords

Social MediaTelemedicinePatientsPostpartum DepressionImo State

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Author Information

Prince Uba

@princeuba03

Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Federal University Otuoke, Bayelsa State
Nigeria
Publication Details

Volume 2, Issue 2

Year 2026

Pages:310-318
Published:Sun Aug 30 2026
Last Updated:Sat Oct 03 2026