Feasibility and Acceptability of a Telehealth Intervention Among Women With Perinatal Mental Health

Launched by BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY · Apr 25, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at a new way to support women who are experiencing mental health challenges during and after pregnancy, specifically focusing on those dealing with perinatal depression, anxiety, and some risk of substance use. The study will use telehealth, which means participants will join group sessions online from the comfort of their own homes. Over eight weeks, women will engage in an evidence-based program designed to help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, while also learning about substance use risks. The researchers want to see if this online approach is acceptable and effective for women facing these challenges.

To be eligible for the study, women must be at least 18 years old and either pregnant or within 12 months after giving birth. They should also be able to read and understand English and have access to the internet. Participants will need to have some level of risk for perinatal depression or anxiety, which will be assessed using a couple of screening tools. Throughout the eight weeks, they will complete questionnaires to track their symptoms, treatment adherence, and any substance use, both at the beginning of the study, at the end, and two months later. This trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it aims to provide valuable insights into how telehealth can support women's mental health during this important time.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Women 18 and older who, at the time of enrollment
• • Have a viable pregnancy or who are up to 12 months postpartum,
• • Read and understand English, and
• • Have an access to electronic device with internet access.
• And who have at least one of the following risk factors for perinatal depression/anxiety:
• • Have an Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score of 9-20,
• • History of depression or anxiety,
• • Have experienced two or more significant life events that put them at risk for developing depression (measured on the screening questionnaire),
• • Have an NIDA Quick Screen and answered "yes" with any choices,
• • Have a total score of NIDA Modified ASSIST 0-26 (mild to moderate risk) and report the use of common substances (cannabis, prescription opioids, inhalants, prescribed stimulants, and sedatives or sleeping pills) based on NIDA-Modified ASSIST.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Less than 18 years old
• • Have an EPDS score \> 20
• • Have a NIDA Modified ASSIST score \> 26;
• • Have a current diagnosis of a serious mental illness, such as psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression, or suicidality
• • Have a current diagnosis of substance use disorder; or
• • Currently use street opioids, cocaine, methamphetamine, and/or hallucinogens based on NIDA-Modified ASSIST