Chateauguay

This research project focuses on women experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms during the postnatal period. It aims to evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of a French-Canadian version of an internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy iCBT program. The study compares adding this iCBT program to usual community care versus usual care alone to see if it better reduces anxiety and depression symptoms. The trial is a randomized clinical study with a hybrid design to explore both clinical effects and implementation factors. Participants are assigned to one of two groups the experimental group uses a self-directed, adapted postnatal iCBT program consisting of three lessons completed over six weeks, combined with treatment-as-usual TAU. The control group receives TAU alone and gains access to the iCBT program after completing follow-up questionnaires. The iCBT program includes lessons on CBT skills such as psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, problem solving, behavioral activation, graded exposure, and relapse prevention, supported by homework and resource materials. Participants receive email and text reminders with a schedule to ensure lessons are spaced over weeks. During the study, participants complete questionnaires at baseline, week 6, and week 10 to assess anxiety and depression symptoms using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Additional assessments include psychological distress, quality of life, and mother-child attachment. The study collects data on healthcare use and treatment satisfaction. The total participation spans about 10 weeks, involving online program activities and questionnaire completion, with no restrictions on usual care. Safety is monitored by excluding individuals with severe depression or active suicidal intent.