Enhancing Digital Health Development Through Speech Act Theory: Application to Peripartum Depression Management

The peripartum period is a time of complex transition into motherhood when women may develop peripartum depression (PPD). Digital information sources can help prevent and monitor symptoms through social support and mental health knowledge. However, few studies have characterized the content and form of peer interactions in PPD online forums to inform interventions. In this paper, we present preliminary work using a dataset of 55,301 interactions to inform our digital health development. We combine manual coding for speech acts, behavioral theory mapping, and user engagement modeling to conceptualize dynamic digital education modules for PPD. Results reveal "Expressive" speech act, where users illustrate their state of mind, was the most common (n = 364 messages), and the content theme of "Physical and Mental Health" was most discussed (n = 446). Interventions for PPD prevention and self-management should leverage naturalistic dynamics from social forums to provide just-in-time information, a sense of community, and peer support.