Mercy Health welcomes its partnership with the Parent-Infant Research Institute (PIRI) to look at how we can beat the blues before birth.
The Beating the Blues before Birth (BBB) program is an adaptation of the Getting Ahead of Postnatal Depression Group Program for pregnant women who are experiencing depression. We are currently seeking expectant mums to take part in a research study. All participants receive a full assessment with a psychologist, and are either managed by their GP or receive the BBB treatment free of charge and participants are reimbursed for their time filling out questionnaires.
Beating the Blues before Birth (BBB) is a cognitive behavioural therapy program. Designed for women experiencing depression during pregnancy, it includes one couple session to provide partners with information, support and an opportunity to be involved in the therapeutic process.
BBB was developed by adapting PIRI’s evaluated treatment for Postnatal Depression and including relevant aspects from other PIRI programs including Towards Parenthood and research.
Beating the Blues Before Birth Treatment
Women receive 8 sessions of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). The sessions cover:
- Understanding and managing mood
- Pleasant Activities: How can I find the time?
- Relaxation on the run
- Assertiveness and self-esteem: Telling others what I think and how I feel
- Unrealistic expectations of parenting: Influences from the past
- Developing a more helpful thinking style
- Challenging my internal critic
In addition, one couple session is held to provide information and support to partners.
More information:
Find out more about the clinical trial, click here. To register, click here.
To download the Beating the Blues before Birth trial brochure click here.
For any enquiries, please contact Yafit Hirshler on (03) 9496 4496 or via email.
Last reviewed November 16, 2023.