A recent study from researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder has shown that a free online program can significantly help new and expectant mothers with a history of depression, reducing their risk of relapse by over 25%. The findings were shared in the Lancet Public Health journal on October 20.
First author Sona Dimidjian, a professor at the university, emphasizes the importance of providing choices for these mothers, especially since many don’t have many options available. “Our study used scientific methods to find an effective non-drug approach,” she explained.
Studies show that nearly 20% of women face major depression during pregnancy or up to a year after giving birth. This number climbs to 77% for those with a past history of depression.
Although antidepressants are often the go-to solution for preventing relapse, many expectant mothers prefer talking therapies instead, with a significant portion choosing to stop or reduce their medication while pregnant. Additionally, stigma around depression can make it hard for these women to seek help.
“There’s a common belief that pregnancy is a joyful period. While it is for some, it can also bring feelings of anxiety and sadness,” Dimidjian added.
Barriers like cost and transportation also make it difficult for mothers to access the support they need. To address these challenges, the team created Mindful Mood Balance for Moms (MMB for Moms), an eight-session digital program that incorporates mindfulness techniques and cognitive behavioral skills through audio guidance, videos, and insights from both peers and professionals.
The research evaluated the program’s effectiveness by involving 500 expectant mothers who had a history of depression from across the United States. These participants had previously taken antidepressants but were not currently clinically depressed at the time of the study.
Half of the participants used the MMB for Moms program for 12 weeks, while the other half continued with regular care. The researchers tracked depression relapse for up to six months after childbirth. Those who participated in the program were found to be 26% less likely to experience a return of their depression and reported significant reductions in anxiety and stress.
Dimidjian clarified that the program is not meant to replace medication or treat existing depression; instead, it equips mothers with tools to help prevent it. For example, one session teaches mindfulness practices that can be done with a baby, while another helps moms respond to negative self-thoughts with kindness.
Dr. Lee Cohen, who co-authored the study and is the director of the Ammon-Pinizzotto Center for Women’s Health at Massachusetts General Hospital, stated that while the program does not aim to substitute medication, it could be a beneficial supplement for many depending on their unique needs.
Around 75% of participants from both groups continued using antidepressants throughout the study. Future studies will look further into the impact of staying on medication versus discontinuing it.
“This program offers a viable non-drug alternative for those looking to reduce the risk of depression recurrence,” Cohen noted.
Looking ahead, Dimidjian hopes to investigate how the program affects both parenting and the well-being of children. “Our goal at the Crown Institute is to enhance the well-being of both young people and their caregivers,” she said, emphasizing their commitment to supporting mothers and positively influencing their families.
