Parenting Intervention for Postpartum Depression

(MInD Trial)

This trial tests a new approach to managing postpartum depression by combining a parenting program with usual care. Researchers compare this combination to usual care alone to determine which is more effective for improving mental health and parenting outcomes. The trial is open to pregnant women who speak English, are between 13-24 weeks into their pregnancy, experience symptoms of depression, and can send and receive text messages. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to important mental health research.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but if you are receiving ongoing active treatment with psychotropic medications from a mental health specialist, you may not be eligible to participate.

Research has shown that both treatments in this trial, Perinatal Collaborative Care and Promoting First Relationships-Brief, have been safe in previous studies.

Perinatal Collaborative Care is generally well-tolerated. This program improves mental health care for new mothers and has been used across the United States to support women with perinatal depression. No significant negative effects have been reported from this care model.

Promoting First Relationships-Brief has also proven safe. This program helps build strong early bonds between parents and their babies. One study found that mothers who participated had better interactions with their children. No harmful side effects have been reported in these studies.

Researchers are excited about these treatments for postpartum depression because they focus on strengthening the bond between mother and infant, which is a unique approach compared to traditional treatments like antidepressants and therapy. The Perinatal Collaborative Care combined with Promoting First Relationships-Brief aims to enhance the mother-infant relationship, potentially improving mental health outcomes by fostering emotional connections early on. This approach is different because it integrates caregiving techniques directly into mental health care, offering a holistic strategy that may address both emotional and relational aspects of postpartum depression.

Research has shown that the Promoting First Relationships-Brief program, part of the Maternal Infant Dyadic Care arm in this trial, can help with postpartum depression. One study found that mothers at risk for postnatal depression felt better and developed stronger connections with their babies after participating in this program. These mothers were also less likely to experience worsening depression. By improving the bond between mothers and their infants, the program benefits both mental health and parenting. This suggests the program could be a good option for those dealing with postpartum depression.²⁶⁷⁸⁹