Quasi-experimental evaluation of a telephone-based peer support intervention for maternal depression

AimsTo evaluate the effect of telephone-based peer support on maternal depression and social support BackgroundPostpartum depression is a global health concern and lack of treatment options mean many mothers are depressed beyond the first year after birth. Strong evidence has shown telephone-based peer support, provided by a mother recovered from depression, effectively improves depression outcomes. This model has not been tested with mothers with depression any time up to two years postpartum. DesignQuasi-experimental, one group pre-test, posttest. MethodThe study population was mothers in New Brunswick, Canada with depression up to 24months after delivery. The sample (N=64) was recruited between May 2011-October 2013. Peer volunteers recovered from postpartum depression were trained and delivered an average of 884 (Range 1-13) support telephone calls. Depression and social support outcomes were assessed at intervention mid-point (average 743weeks, n=37) and end (average 139weeks, n=34). ResultsMean depression significantly declined from baseline, 154 (N=49), to mid-point, 830 and end of the study, 626. At mid-point 81% (n=3/37) of mothers were depressed and at endpoint 118% (4/34) were depressed suggesting some relapse. Perceptions of social support significantly improved and higher support was significantly related with lower depression symptoms. ConclusionFindings offer promise that telephone-based peer support is effective for both early postpartum depression and maternal depression up to two years after delivery.