Online CBT Workshop for Postpartum Depression

Overseen By Nancy Lloyd, MSc

Age: 18+

Sex: Female

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: McMaster University

Disqualifiers: Current major depression, Bipolar, Psychotic, Borderline, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Approved in 1 Jurisdiction This treatment is already approved in other countries

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 2

Duration: 1 day

412 Participants Needed

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial tests whether an online, one-day workshop using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can reduce postpartum depression symptoms more effectively than usual care alone. It involves two groups: one will attend the online CBT workshop while continuing their regular prenatal care, and the other will receive only standard care. The trial targets individuals living in Ontario, Canada, who are in their third trimester of pregnancy and have a history of major depression. Participants must also currently exhibit mild symptoms of depression. The trial aims to determine if adding CBT can improve mental health outcomes for new mothers. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to important research that could enhance postpartum care.

Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

What prior data suggests that this online CBT workshop is safe for postpartum depression?

Research has shown that online 1-day cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) workshops are generally safe for participants. In a study with 403 mothers, these workshops significantly reduced postpartum depression, and no major safety issues were reported. This indicates that the treatment is usually well-tolerated. CBT is a common therapy method, known for its safety and effectiveness in treating mental health issues.

Participants can feel confident that the workshop's online format, led by trained facilitators, has been tested without major problems. However, as with any treatment, individual experiences may differ. Discussing any concerns with a healthcare provider is always advisable. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about the Online 1-Day CBT-Based Workshop for postpartum depression because it offers a unique and accessible approach to mental health care. Unlike traditional treatments for postpartum depression, which often involve regular in-person therapy sessions, this workshop is delivered entirely online, making it more convenient for new mothers who may struggle to find time for frequent appointments. Additionally, the condensed one-day format allows participants to receive comprehensive cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) training in a single session, potentially accelerating their path to improved mental well-being. This innovative delivery method could make effective mental health support more accessible to many who might otherwise face barriers to traditional therapy.

What evidence suggests that this online CBT workshop is effective for postpartum depression?

Research has shown that online 1-day Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) workshops can greatly help with postpartum depression. A study with 403 mothers demonstrated significant improvements in depression symptoms following these workshops. The results were important and supported by strong evidence. In this trial, participants in the experimental arm will attend a one-day online CBT workshop, which could effectively reduce postpartum depression. The workshop is designed to be easy to access and convenient, offering a promising option for new mothers seeking support. ^{1 2 3 4 6}

Who Is on the Research Team?

Ryan Van Lieshout, MD, PhD

Principal Investigator

McMaster University

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for adults over 18 in Ontario, Canada, who are in their third trimester of pregnancy but not currently experiencing a major depressive episode. Participants should have risk factors for postpartum depression such as low income, past depression or anxiety, recent major stress, single status, history of abuse, or low social support.

Inclusion Criteria

Currently in 3rd trimester of pregnancy (28-36 weeks gestation)

EPDS score >6

I have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder before.

Exclusion Criteria

Positive score on the MINI for a current major depressive episode

Positive score on the MINI subsections of bipolar, psychotic, or borderline personality disorder

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants attend a 1-day online CBT-based workshop in addition to receiving usual care

1 day

1 visit (online)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment

3 months

Data collection at 1, 2, and 3 months postpartum

Data Collection

Data collection at baseline, 1, 2, and 3 months postpartum to assess various outcomes

3 months

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Online 1-Day CBT-Based Workshop

Trial Overview The study tests if an online one-day CBT-based workshop can reduce the rates of postpartum depression when added to usual treatment. It's a randomized controlled trial with half the participants receiving standard care and the other half also attending the workshop.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Online 1-Day CBT-Based Workshop Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Participants assigned to the treatment arm will attend a day long CBT-based workshop delivered online by two trained facilitators in addition to receiving usual care.

Group II: Treatment as Usual Active Control 1 Intervention

Participants assigned to the control arm will continue to receive standard prenatal care from their healthcare providers.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

McMaster University

Lead Sponsor

Trials

936

Recruited

2,630,000+

Published Research Related to This Trial

A study evaluating preventive cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for postpartum depression (PPD) found that while the prevalence of PPD was higher in the risk group (5.5%) compared to the control group (2.2%), the difference was not statistically significant, indicating that CBT may not drastically reduce PPD rates in this population.

The therapy showed gradual improvement in mental health scores (OQ-45) during sessions, suggesting that brief CBT can be effective in reducing symptoms and preventing PPD, especially among women with higher education levels.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Brief cognitive behavioral therapy in pregnant women at risk of postpartum depression: Pre-post therapy study in a city in southern Brazil. Pinheiro, RT., Trettim, JP., de Matos, MB., et al.[2021]

A one-day cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) workshop significantly reduced postpartum depression (PPD) scores in 461 mothers and birthing parents, with participants showing three times higher odds of clinically significant improvement compared to those receiving treatment as usual.

The workshop also led to decreased anxiety and improved mother-infant relationships, while being cost-effective, suggesting it could be a valuable addition to perinatal care models.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

In-person 1-day cognitive behavioral therapy-based workshops for postpartum depression: a randomized controlled trial. Van Lieshout, RJ., Layton, H., Savoy, CD., et al.[2023]

A one-day online workshop utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy significantly improved symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety, as well as enhancing social support and the mother-infant relationship.

This approach offers an efficient way to increase access to treatment for postpartum depression, suggesting it could be a valuable addition to standard care.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

One-Day Workshop Beneficial for Postpartum Depression. Rosenberg, K.[2022]

A pilot study involving seven women showed that group Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) delivered by public health nurses is feasible and acceptable for treating postpartum depression (PPD).

Participants experienced significant reductions in depression and worry, improved mother-infant relations, and decreased health care visits, indicating that this intervention could effectively alleviate the burden of PPD.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Public health nurse delivered group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for postpartum depression: A pilot study. Van Lieshout, RJ., Layton, H., Feller, A., et al.[2021]

A randomized controlled trial with 183 participants showed that a 9-week online group cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) led by peers significantly reduced postpartum depression (PPD) and anxiety symptoms, with improvements lasting for at least 3 months after the intervention.

The study also found enhancements in maternal social support and reductions in infant-focused anxiety and negative emotionality, suggesting that this peer-delivered approach could effectively increase access to treatment for PPD and benefit families overall.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Online peer-delivered group cognitive-behavioral therapy for postpartum depression: A randomized controlled trial. Merza, D., Amani, B., Savoy, C., et al.[2023]

A 1-day cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) workshop for postpartum depression (PPD) was found to be effective and valuable, providing participants with practical skills and social support, as reported by 189 participants (94 in-person and 95 online).

Participants expressed a desire for additional 'booster sessions' to reinforce learning and enhance satisfaction, indicating that while the workshop is beneficial, ongoing support could further improve outcomes.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Mothers' and birthing parents' experiences with 1-day cognitive behavioural therapy-based workshops for postpartum depression: A descriptive qualitative study. Varambally, M., Layton, H., Jack, SM., et al.[2023]

Citations

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Home | SAMHSA - Substance Abuse and Mental Health ... SAMHSA leads efforts to advance behavioral health across the U.S., offering resources for mental health, substance use, and community well-being.

2. psychiatrist.com psychiatrist.com/jcp/one-day-online-cognitive-behavioral-therapy-workshops-preventing-postpartum-depression-randomized-controlled-trial/

One-Day Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy–Based ... One-Day Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy–Based Workshops for the Prevention of Postpartum Depression: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Zoe ...

3. clinicaltrials.gov clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04485000

Online 1-Day CBT-Based Workshops for PPD The purpose of this study is to a assess if self-referred, online adaptation of a 1-Day Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)-Based Workshop for PPD delivered up ...

4. jamanetwork.com jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2784108

Effect of Online 1-Day Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ... In this randomized clinical trial of 403 mothers, online 1-day CBT-based workshops led to clinically and statistically significant improvements in PPD and ...

5. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8427485/

Effect of Online 1-Day Cognitive Behavioral Therapy– ... In this randomized clinical trial of 403 mothers, online 1-day CBT-based workshops led to clinically and statistically significant improvements in PPD and ...

6. womensmentalhealth.org womensmentalhealth.org/posts/single-day-cbt-based-workshops-for-postpartum-depression/

Single Day CBT-Based Workshops for Mothers with ... A recent report suggests that a one-day workshop offering cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for PPD may be effective and may have the potential to reach ...