Digital Monitoring and Therapy Using Phones and Watches for Perinatal Depression in Pregnant and Postpartum Women

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether adding digital data collected from phones and watches during early treatment stages of perinatal depression can better predict treatment outcomes than relying on self-reported symptoms alone. The study focuses on women in their last trimester of pregnancy or postpartum who have moderate to severe depression. This research builds on the UCLA Depression Grand Challenges STAND program, which uses technology-assisted therapy tailored to perinatal depression and has shown comparable results to psychiatrist-delivered care. Participants with moderate depression will use an online cognitive-behavioral therapy CBT program called ParentMood, including up to 9 optional coaching sessions and an initial orientation via secure video calls. Those with severe depression or significant suicidality will receive clinician-delivered CBT with weekly psychotherapy sessions, and may be referred for psychiatric consultation and medication if needed. The study will collect digital sensing data during the first four weeks of participation alongside the 12-week treatment program. During the 12-week study, participants will be monitored regularly with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale EPDS to assess depressive symptoms and treatment progress. Researchers will track treatment retention through attendance of coaching or therapy sessions and completion rates. Participants must install a study app on their iPhone and wear an Apple Watch daily for the initial four weeks to provide digital sensing data. The goal is to improve clinical decision-making by integrating digital sensing with digital therapy, with special attention to low-income mothers who often have limited access to mental healthcare.

Health And Response: Digital Markers for Outcomes in Perinatal Depression Treatment Study