Engage & Connect A 9-Week Remote Psychotherapy Program for Postpartum Depression Focusing on Social Reward and Reducing Isolation

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new psychotherapy called Engage & Connect E&C designed to help mothers with postpartum depression by increasing meaningful social activities and reducing social isolation. This randomized controlled trial compares E&C to a Symptom Review and Psychoeducation SRP intervention, both delivered remotely over 9 weeks. The study focuses on changes in social isolation, processing of social rewards, and depression severity during treatment. Participants receive one of two 9-week remotely delivered behavioral therapies. Engage & Connect involves working with a therapist to create action plans for engaging in rewarding social activities. The Symptom Review and Psychoeducation intervention provides symptom monitoring and education about postpartum depression and changes after birth. Both interventions aim to assist mothers with postpartum depression but use different approaches. During the study, depression severity will be measured weekly using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale EPDS. Additional assessments include the Behavioral Activation for Depression Scale BADS and social reward processing tasks at baseline, week 3, week 6, and week 9. The trial is double-blinded and randomized, with continuous monitoring of mental health and social engagement. Participation lasts for the 9-week treatment period with regular evaluations.

Engage & Connect: A Psychotherapy for Postpartum Depression