Using digital technology to treat postpartum depression in low-resource settings
Sensing Technologies for Maternal Depression Treatment in Low-Resource Settings
This study tests if a digital mental health program can help new mothers in Nepal who are struggling with postpartum depression feel better compared to regular support.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 15 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | George Washington University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kathmandu) |
| Trial ID | NCT06253676 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of the StandStrong intervention, a digital mental health program designed for postpartum-depressed mothers in Nepal. The intervention utilizes passive sensing technology to collect data on mothers' health and behavior, which is then analyzed and used by non-specialist providers to tailor support. By comparing this approach to standard non-specialist mental health interventions, the study aims to determine the acceptability and clinical efficacy of integrating digital tools into mental health care. The trial addresses the significant issue of untreated postpartum depression in low- and middle-income countries.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are mothers aged 15-39 with infants within their first 1000 days of life who have a PHQ-9 score of 8 or higher.
Not a fit: Patients with a PHQ-9 score below 8 or those presenting acute medical needs or psychotic symptoms may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve mental health outcomes for postpartum mothers in low-resource settings.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown mixed results for non-specialist interventions, but the integration of digital technology in this context is a novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Mother Age: 15-39 years * Infant Age: Within 1st 1000 days of life * Mother PHQ-9 Score: 8+ * Access to a technology charging modality within home * Will remain in the study area for a minimum of 6 months after enrollment Exclusion Criteria: * Mother PHQ-9 Score: Less Than 8 * Different permanent residences of mother and infant at time of recruitment * Acute medical need or hospitalization of mother or infant at time of recruitment * Presentation of psychotic symptoms (as indicated by the psychosis module of the locally validated Community Informant Detection Tool) at time of recruitment
Where this trial is running
Kathmandu
- Transcultural Psychosocial Organization Nepal — Kathmandu, Nepal (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Brandon A Kohrt, MD PhD — The George Washington University | Center for Global Mental Health Equity
- Study coordinator: Brandon A Kohrt, MD PhD
- Email: bkohrt@gwu.edu
- Phone: 202-741-2888
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.