Effectiveness and implementation of task-sharing cognitive-behavioral interventions for perinatal mental health: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Hongjuan Wang, Jojo Yan Yan Kwok, Minhui Liu et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral interventions (CBIs) delivered by nonspecialist providers (NSPs) for perinatal depressive and anxiety symptoms. Involving 47 trials with 11,357 participants, the study found that CBIs significantly reduced perinatal depression post-intervention (SMD -0.49) and anxiety symptoms (SMD -0.45), although evidence for sustained effects was limited.
Key findings
- CBIs delivered by NSPs significantly reduced perinatal depression symptoms (SMD -0.49).
- Anxiety symptoms also decreased post-intervention (SMD -0.45).
- Only 23.4% of trials assessed fidelity in implementation processes.
- Limited evidence suggested a small sustained effect on depression at 12 months (SMD -0.14).
Why it matters
The findings highlight the potential of task-sharing models in addressing perinatal mental health, particularly in resource-limited settings. Understanding the effectiveness of NSP-delivered interventions can inform strategies to improve mental health outcomes for perinatal populations.
What to keep in mind
Reporting of implementation processes was limited, with only a small percentage of trials assessing fidelity and costs.