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Prevention of postpartum depression via a digital acceptance and commitment therapy-based intervention: protocol for
Silvia Rizzi1, Anna Elena Nicoletti1, Chiara De Luca2
1Digital Health Research, Centre for Digital Health & Wellbeing, Fondazione Bruno Kessler, Trento, Italy.
Frontiers in Psychiatry
|December 15, 2025
Summary
This study explores REA, a virtual coach using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to support perinatal mental health and prevent postpartum depression (PPD). Early results indicate high user satisfaction and engagement with the digital intervention.
Area of Science:
- Digital health interventions
- Perinatal mental health
- Psychological well-being
Background:
- The perinatal period presents significant psychological vulnerability, with high rates of anxiety, stress, and depression.
- Limited access to psychological support due to stigma, geography, and service shortages necessitates innovative solutions.
- Digital health interventions offer a promising avenue to overcome these barriers in perinatal mental healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the acceptability, feasibility, and user experience of REA, a virtual coach utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
- To assess REA's potential in promoting psychological well-being and preventing postpartum depression (PPD) among pregnant women.
- To explore user engagement and satisfaction with a digital tool for perinatal mental health support.
Main Methods:
- Recruitment of 50 pregnant women (25-30 weeks gestation) for an 8-week intervention.
- Delivery of psychoeducational content via text, audio, and video, with data collection via smartwatches and self-report measures.
- Assessment of user experience and engagement using validated scales (SUS, UES-SF, ITA BUS B, uMARS) and semi-structured interviews. Psychological outcomes measured pre-post using standardized questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Expected high user satisfaction and engagement scores across multiple usability and engagement scales.
- Anticipated improvements in psychological flexibility, perceived well-being, and quality of life.
- Recognition that definitive preventive efficacy requires further controlled studies with postpartum outcome measures.
Conclusions:
- REA presents a scalable and accessible digital tool for supporting perinatal mental health.
- The virtual coach offers an innovative approach for the early prevention of postpartum distress.
- This intervention holds potential to enhance mental well-being during the critical perinatal period.
