Nature-based group intervention for mothers with postnatal depression
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Developing a nature-based group intervention for mothers with postnatal depression
IRAS ID
336233
Contact name
Katherine Hall
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bristol
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Postnatal depression (PND) affects 10-20% of mothers and birthing people. It can cause serious problems for parents, families, and babies. Many people with PND cannot access the help they need, like therapy or medication, because of stigma, cultural differences, or practical challenges like childcare.
Spending time in nature has been found to improve mental health by reducing stress, boosting mood, and helping people to feel more connected to others. This study builds on a nature-based intervention that we developed for PND, with the help of people with lived experience. Now, we need to understand how the programme could be delivered at scale, by whom, and in which settings. This will help us to prepare for a feasibility randomised controlled trial.
This study has two phases.
In Phase 1, we will aim to understand:
• how the programme fits alongside existing care pathways for PND
• the most suitable settings for delivery of the programme
• which practitioners are best placed to deliver the the programme, and required training
• how the programme can be made accessible to people who need it most.To do this, we will hold interviews and focus groups with mothers and birthing people with lived experience of PND, healthcare professionals, and nature-based practitioners.
In Phase 2, we will hold co-production workshops to develop materials for the programme, like a guide for facilitators and a training package. We will work closely with people who might deliver or use the programme. In gathering these perspectives, our aim is to ensure that the intervention is practical, accessible, and fits with existing care pathways.
We will recruit participants through NHS services and community groups. The results of this study will guide the design of a future feasibility study.
The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and sponsored by the University of Bristol.
REC name
London - City & East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0495
Date of REC Opinion
23 Apr 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion