Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy Staff Training Program to Tackle Postpartum Depression

Abstract Background: Women in the process of childbirth go through significant physical and psychological changes. The internal changes along with other external factors can be overwhelming. There is a high rate of new mothers suffering from postpartum depression (PPD) as a result. Problem: High prevalence of PPD is a public health crisis. The condition has a negative impact on the mother-baby unit and the wellbeing of the whole family. Aside from the implications on the health of new mothers and babies, PPD is also costly to the economy. Methods: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a common and effective intervention for the treatment of general depression, yet it is limited in the care of PPD. This project is to develop a mindfulness-based cognitive therapy staff training program at local primary care maternal health clinic to educate the staff about perinatal depression and MBCT. The staff can then educate and advocate for peers and patients regarding the above topics. Interventions: Needs assessment and two educational sessions were implemented at the maternal care unit. Results: About 10 staff members participated in the training program. The staff showed significantly increased knowledge level of perinatal depression and MBCT as well as full willingness to educate others on the topics. The teaching sessions were well received. Conclusions: The pilot training program positively improved the staff’s knowledge level as well as their enthusiasm to educate and advocate for patients. Key words: perinatal depression, postpartum depression, mindfulness, cognitive therapy, staff training, maternal car