Volume 41, Issue 4 p. 405-409

A brief psycho-educational group intervention for postnatal depression

Kyla L. Honey

Corresponding Author

Kyla L. Honey

Cardiff University, UK

K. L. Honey, School of Psychology, Cardiff University, PO Box 901, Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3YG, UK (e-mail: [email protected]).Search for more papers by this author
Paul Bennett

Paul Bennett

University of Wales College of Medicine, UK

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Michelle Morgan

Michelle Morgan

Cardiff University, UK

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First published: 24 December 2010
Citations: 69

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of a controlled psycho-educational group (PEG) intervention for postnatal depression, compared with Routine Primary Care (RPC).

Design and method: The participants were 45 women scoring above 12 on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale who were allocated to the study conditions using block randomization procedures. Short- and long-term changes in mood and psychosocial measures were assessed.

Results: Compared with RPC, the PEG significantly reduced the level of depressive symptoms, but had no impact on psychosocial outcome.

Conclusion: A brief PEG is an effective form of treatment for women with low post-partum mood.