A qualitative study of teen mothers’ experiences accessing mental health services

Abstract

The transition to motherhood carries significant challenges. Teen mothers, in particular, are disproportionately impacted by mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, compounded by criticism, judgement, and stereotyping from others in the community. If not addressed, mental health challenges can negatively affect maternal well-being and child development outcomes. Many teen parents and their children thrive with the proper support, and it is important to explore how they can achieve positive mental health. This study was led in collaboration with the Terra Centre, a non-profit organization that has been supporting pregnant and parenting teens in Edmonton for more than 50 years. Using a community-based research approach and qualitative descriptive design, this study aimed to answer the following questions: (1) What are teen mothers’ experiences with accessing and receiving mental health services? (2) How are mental health services provided to teen mothers? And (3) How can mental health service providers best meet teen mothers’ unique needs? Participants included five young mothers and one father served by the Terra Centre, and three full-time therapists working at the organization. Findings highlight the importance of the therapeutic relationship, where trust and mutual respect are essential for continued engagement. Participants identified attributes of an ideal provider such as being present, laid-back, and respectful of boundaries. Therapists touched on their experiences working with this population and outlined Terra’s approach to mental health service provision, which was said to be flexible, relational, responsive, and growth-oriented. Altogether, these findings contribute to our understanding of barriers and facilitators to accessing mental health services, with key implications for better supporting the mental health needs of teen parents.