Online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Postpartum Depression
(postnataIiCBT Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests an online therapy program for new mothers experiencing anxiety and depression after childbirth. The aim is to determine if adding this online therapy to regular care reduces symptoms more effectively than regular care alone. Participants in one group will engage in a 6-week self-guided online program, the Postnatal Anxiety and Depression iCBT program, while another group will receive regular care and access to the program later. Women within 12 months postpartum, who speak French, and have significant anxiety or depression symptoms may be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study provides an opportunity to contribute to valuable research that could enhance mental health support for new mothers.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it does exclude those who have started new medication for depression or anxiety within the last 8 weeks. It also excludes those currently using benzodiazepines.
What prior data suggests that this online cognitive behavioral therapy program is safe for postpartum women?
Research has shown that online cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) for postpartum depression is generally safe and well-tolerated. Studies have found that it can reduce anxiety and depression in new mothers without causing significant side effects. iCBT is considered low-risk because it is a non-invasive therapy that mainly involves talking and writing.
For instance, one study examined an iCBT program for new parents and found it effective and safe, with no reports of serious negative experiences. Most participants completed the program without any problems, indicating it was easy to manage and acceptable.
Overall, past participants in these studies have demonstrated that iCBT is a promising and safe option for treating postnatal anxiety and depression.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) program for postpartum depression because it offers a flexible, self-directed approach that can be accessed from home. Unlike traditional face-to-face therapy, this program allows new mothers to engage with treatment at their own pace, fitting it into their busy schedules without needing to arrange childcare or travel. Additionally, the digital format can reach a wider audience, making mental health support more accessible to those who may not have easy access to in-person therapy. This innovative approach could significantly enhance the support available to new mothers experiencing postpartum depression.
What evidence suggests that this iCBT program is effective for postpartum depression?
Research has shown that online cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) effectively reduces symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety. One study found that iCBT helped new mothers feel less depressed, offering important support after childbirth. Another study demonstrated that iCBT improved access to helpful mental health care for mothers. In this trial, participants in one arm will receive the postnatal anxiety and depression iCBT program alongside treatment-as-usual (TAU), providing extra support and potentially leading to better results. Overall, evidence suggests that iCBT is a promising tool for improving mental health after having a baby.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Helen-Maria Vasiliadis, PhD
Principal Investigator
Université de Sherbrooke
Pasquale Roberge, PhD
Principal Investigator
Université de Sherbrooke
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for postnatal women experiencing mixed anxiety and depressive symptoms. Participants should be comfortable with French-Canadian language as the program is adapted to this variant. There are no specific inclusion or exclusion criteria provided, but typically participants would need access to the internet and have some level of comfort with using online tools.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants in the postnatal iCBT group complete a 6-week non-guided iCBT program for anxiety and depressive symptoms
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with questionnaires at week 10
Waitlist Control
Participants in the TAU group complete questionnaires and have delayed access to the iCBT program after the follow-up phase
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Postnatal anxiety and depression iCBT program
Trial Overview
The study tests a French-Canadian version of an internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) program designed for postnatal women with anxiety and depression. It compares the effectiveness of iCBT plus usual care versus usual care alone over a period of 10 weeks, including follow-up assessments.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Women will have access to the postnatal iCBT program (self-directed) and will have to complete the program over six weeks. They still can have contacts with the healthcare system.
No restrictions will be imposed regarding usual care. To reflect heterogeneity of health seeking behaviour and mental health practices for anxiety and depressive symptoms in the community during the postpartum period, participants will not be constrained to a prespecified usual care treatment for external validity or have contacts with the healthcare system. Data will be collected on throughout the trial. This group will have a delayed access to the program after they complete their four-week follow-up questionnaire.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Université de Sherbrooke
Lead Sponsor
Centre intégré de santé et services sociaux de la Montérégie-Centre
Collaborator
Centre intégré de santé et services sociaux de la Montérégie-Ouest
Collaborator
Centre intégré de santé et services sociaux de la Montérégie-Est
Collaborator
Champlain Local Health Integration Network
Collaborator
Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l'Estrie - Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke
Collaborator
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
Collaborator
Published Research Related to This Trial
Citations
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SAMHSA leads efforts to advance behavioral health across the U.S., offering resources for mental health, substance use, and community well-being.
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Nearly 20% of women will be confronted with anxiety or depressive disorders during the perinatal period and this may lead to adverse ...
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