Text messaging to help reduce depression risk during pregnancy
A Text Messaging Intervention to Reduce Perinatal Depression Risk
This study is testing a text messaging program to see if it can help pregnant people lower their risk of depression by providing support and helpful information.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 16 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Massachusetts, Worcester Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Worcester, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT06117397 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This intervention focuses on developing and testing a text messaging system aimed at reducing the risk of major depressive episodes in pregnant individuals. The program screens participants for depression risk and sends tailored text messages that include links to supportive content and a peer chat function. By leveraging the accessibility of text messaging and evidence-based behavioral interventions, the study aims to enhance self-efficacy and provide necessary support during pregnancy. The initiative addresses the challenges of traditional depression prevention methods by utilizing technology to deliver timely information and support.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking pregnant individuals aged 16 and older who are at risk for depression.
Not a fit: Patients currently experiencing a major depressive episode or those with specific mental health disorders may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly lower the incidence of perinatal depression and improve maternal and infant health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with text messaging interventions in various health contexts, suggesting potential effectiveness for this novel approach in perinatal depression.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * English speaking * "At risk" as determined by an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score of at least 9, or an average score \>3 on the 6-item Medical Outcomes Social Support Survey or history of depression in pregnancy or postpartum depression * At least age 16 * Are willing and able to provide informed consent * Are willing to use a smart phone to receive texts Exclusion Criteria: * In a major depressive episode * Planning on terminating pregnancy * Have panic disorder or substance use disorder * Currently in behavioral health care treatment * Blind individuals * Permanently living in an institutional setting
Where this trial is running
Worcester, Massachusetts
- UMass Chan Medical School — Worcester, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kimberly Yonkers, MD — UMass Chan Medical School
- Study coordinator: Kimberly Yonkers, MD
- Email: kimberly.yonkers@umassmemorial.org
- Phone: 2034945055
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.