Treatment of Postpartum Depression via Guided Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Comprehensive Case Study

Abstract

This case study aims to analyze the efficiency of the guided internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) in treating postpartum depression (PPD) of a 29-year-old primiparous woman with moderate symptoms of sadness, guilt, and fatigue (EPDS: 17; GAD-7: 11). The client went through a standard iCBT program that was comprised of psychoeducation, behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, problem-solving, self-compassion, and relapse prevention for client over eight weeks with weekly therapist guided therapy sessions. Clients showed significant improvement in symptoms of depression and anxiety in Post intervention assessment (EPDS: 6; GAD: 4). The flexibility of programs, well-structured content and therapist support during online sessions facilitated the engagement of client and highlighted the potential of iCBT as an accessible and effective treatment for PPD. This case shows that there is a need to conduct more research on the effectiveness of the treatment eventually to explore the possibility of implementing iCBT as an integral part of maternal mental health care.