Online group therapy for postpartum depression led by nurses and peers
Public Health Nurse-Peer Co-Delivered Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Postpartum Depression: a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing whether a 9-week online group therapy program for postpartum depression, led by nurses and trained peers, can help new mothers feel better compared to just getting standard treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 170 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | McMaster University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hamilton, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT06597448 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of a 9-week online group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) intervention for postpartum depression (PPD), co-led by public health nurses and trained peers who have recovered from PPD. The trial involves 170 mothers or birthing parents, half of whom will receive the intervention in addition to standard treatment, while the other half will receive standard treatment alone. Participants will complete online questionnaires at three different time points to assess the intervention's impact on PPD, anxiety, and related complications. The study also aims to determine the cost-effectiveness of this approach.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are mothers or birthing parents aged 18 and older with infants under 12 months who have a moderate to severe score on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale.
Not a fit: Patients with bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, current substance use disorders, or borderline personality disorder may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the mental health and well-being of mothers experiencing postpartum depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that peer-led interventions can be effective for mental health conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Mothers or birthing parents, 18 years old, have an infant under 12 months of age at recruitment, fluent in written/spoken English, have a Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score ≥10 and live in Ontario, Canada. Exclusion Criteria: Bipolar, psychotic, or current substance use disorders and borderline personality disorder as assessed during screening when study coordinator administers the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI).
Where this trial is running
Hamilton, Ontario
- McMaster University — Hamilton, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ryan J Van Lieshout, MD, PhD — McMaster University
- Study coordinator: Ryan J Van Lieshout, MD, PhD
- Email: vanlierj@mcmaster.ca
- Phone: 905-522-1155
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.