Virtual Group Therapy for Postpartum Depression
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 10-20% of women, with immigrant Latinas disproportionately affected. PPD prevention and treatment is limited among immigrant Latinas due to an array of structural and cultural factors, suggesting the need to deliver interventions outside of traditional healthcare settings. Virtual interventions have the potential to reduce barriers to mental health services for immigrant Latinas, but there is little research on the effectiveness of virtual interventions to reduce PPD symptoms. Mothers and Babies is an evidence-based group intervention based on principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy and attachment theory aimed at PPD prevention. Mothers and Babies was adapted for delivery via a virtual group format (Mothers and Babies Virtual Group; MB-VG), with a pilot study suggesting good feasibility and acceptability as well as improved mental health outcomes for immigrant Latinas. The proposed project is a Type 1 Effectiveness-Implementation randomized controlled trial among pregnant individuals and new mothers at risk for PPD based on elevated depressive symptoms and/or other established risk factors who are enrolled in early childhood programs across Maryland. A total of 300 women will be enrolled; 150 will receive MB-VG while 150 will receive usual family support services. The project aims to evaluate: 1) the effectiveness of MB-VG to reduce depressive symptoms, prevent onset of PPD, and improve parenting self-efficacy and responsiveness; 2) implementation of MB-VG; and 3) contextual factors influencing MB-VG effectiveness and implementation. Trained early childhood center staff will deliver MB-VG sessions, with intervention participants receiving virtual group sessions via Zoom using any electronic device (smartphone, tablet, laptop). Maternal self-report surveys are conducted at baseline, 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months post-intervention, with structured clinical interviews also conducted at 3- and 6-months post-intervention. The study is the first to deliver a virtual PPD preventive intervention to immigrant Latinas and to evaluate its impact. Given its virtual delivery modality, MB-VG can be easily replicated and scaled to other family support programs and settings serving immigrant Latinas. If effective and implemented broadly, more immigrant Latinas will receive mental health services and fewer will suffer the negative consequences associated with PPD.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on virtual therapy, so it's likely you can continue your medications, but please confirm with the trial organizers.
Is virtual group therapy for postpartum depression safe?
How is the Mothers and Babies Virtual Group Intervention different from other treatments for postpartum depression?
The Mothers and Babies Virtual Group Intervention is unique because it offers therapy in a virtual group setting, making it more accessible for new mothers who may face barriers like childcare responsibilities. This approach can help improve social support and reduce symptoms of postpartum depression without the need for in-person attendance.46789
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Mothers and Babies Virtual Group Intervention for postpartum depression?
Research shows that group therapies using cognitive behavioral techniques can help improve mood and provide support for mothers with postpartum depression. Studies have found that such group interventions lead to significant improvements in depressive symptoms, social support, and mother-infant bonding.45789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Darius Tandon, PhD
Principal Investigator
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Rheanna Platt, MD
Principal Investigator
Johns Hopkins University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for pregnant immigrant Latinas or those with a child under 9 months old, who speak Spanish and are at least 16 years old. They must have mild depressive symptoms as indicated by specific scores on depression scales and access to a device for virtual sessions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive the Mothers and Babies Virtual Group (MB-VG) intervention, consisting of 10 sessions delivered weekly or bi-weekly via Zoom.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in depressive symptoms, parenting self-efficacy, and other outcomes at 3 and 6 months post-intervention.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Mothers and Babies Virtual Group Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Northwestern University
Lead Sponsor
Palo Alto University
Collaborator
Johns Hopkins University
Collaborator