PHO Rounds: PHN Delivered Online Group-Based CBT for Postpartum Depression

While postpartum depression (PPD) affects up to one in five individuals, most are unable to access evidence-based care. Public health nurses (PHNs) may be able to address this gap by providing group-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) online. The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to understand the effectiveness of online group CBT for PPD delivered by PHNs on depression, anxiety, the mother-infant relationship, and infant temperament. Taken together with the findings of our previous trial, it appears as if public health nurses can deliver effective group CBT for PPD both online and in-person to improve depression, anxiety and the mother-infant relationship.

Intended audience: Public Health Nurses, Public Health Managers, Maternal/Reproductive Health Professionals.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Describe the prevalence and impact of postpartum depression on birthing parents and families.
• Recognize the treatment effects of online public health nurse-delivered group CBT for PPD on maternal symptoms of depression and anxiety, and the parent-infant relationship.
• Explore how PHN-delivered CBT can be implemented within Public Health Units in Ontario.

About the presenters: Ryan J Van Lieshout, Amanda Hicks, and Christina Bradley

Dr. Van Lieshout, MD, PhD, FRCP(C), is a psychiatrist and clinical epidemiologist at McMaster University who is interested in developing and testing interventions aimed at improving access to care for birthing parents struggling with postpartum depression. This work also examines the impact of these interventions on infant neurodevelopment and subsequent psychiatric risk.

Amanda Hicks, RN, BScN, MPH, is a Public Health Nurse and has been supporting maternal/child health as a Program Manager in the Family Health division at Niagara Region Public Health since 2008.

Christina Bradley, RN, BScN, IBCLC, is a Public Health Nurse and Lactation Consultant at Niagara Region Public Health focusing on family support through outreach services.

Disclaimer

The opinions expressed by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies or views of Public Health Ontario, nor does the mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by Public Health Ontario.

Accreditation

PHO Rounds are approved for continuing medical education from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons. PHO Rounds are also approved by Council of Professional Experience for professional development hours (PDHs) for members of the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI). For more information, contact capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.

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Accessibility

Public Health Ontario is committed to complying with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require accommodations to participate in this event, please contact 647-260-7100 or capacitybuilding@oahpp.ca.