An app to help prevent postpartum depression in new mothers

A novel app-based cognitive behavioral therapy intervention for preventing postpartum depression

NIH-funded research Women and Infants Hospital-Rhode Island · NIH-10910932

This study is testing a smartphone app that offers support and therapy for new moms who might be struggling with postpartum depression, especially those who may find it hard to get help in traditional ways, so they can feel better and have the support they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWomen and Infants Hospital-Rhode Island NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-10910932 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of a smartphone application designed to deliver cognitive behavioral therapy to new mothers at risk of postpartum depression (PPD). It aims to address barriers that prevent women, particularly those from low-income backgrounds or women of color, from accessing traditional mental health care. By providing long-term access to mental health support through an app, the study seeks to improve postpartum mental health outcomes. Participants will engage with the app to receive therapy and support tailored to their needs, potentially reducing the incidence of PPD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are new mothers, particularly those who are low-income or women of color, who are at risk for postpartum depression.

Not a fit: Patients who are not new mothers or those who do not have risk factors for postpartum depression may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new mothers with accessible mental health support, significantly reducing the rates of postpartum depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that in-person cognitive behavioral therapy can significantly reduce postpartum depression, suggesting that app-based interventions may also be effective.

Where this research is happening

Providence, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.