A digital program to help prevent depression during and after pregnancy
IMAGINE: pilot trial of a digital group intervention to prevent perinatal depression
This study is testing a friendly online program called IMAGINE that helps pregnant people and new parents prevent depression by using helpful techniques on their phones, making it easier for them to get support when they need it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11031424 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing and testing a digital group intervention called IMAGINE, aimed at preventing perinatal depression among pregnant individuals and new parents. The program utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques delivered through mobile technology, making it accessible to those who may face barriers to traditional in-person therapy. By engaging participants in a supportive online environment, the intervention seeks to improve mental health outcomes for both parents and their children. The study will assess the effectiveness of this approach in reaching at-risk populations who may struggle with accessing conventional mental health services.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals or new parents who are at risk of experiencing perinatal depression, particularly those from low-income or minority backgrounds.
Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or who do not have children may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of perinatal depression, improving the mental health of parents and the well-being of their children.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that digital interventions can be effective in delivering mental health support, suggesting that this approach may hold promise for preventing perinatal depression.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ronen, Keshet — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Ronen, Keshet
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.