Clinical psychologist co-authors new books to help with postpartum depression
Consultant Clinical Psychologist Dr Charlotte Granger is helping new parents with postpartum depression through two new books which she has co-authored.
Charlotte, who is the Associate Director of Psychology for Central Norfolk CFYP at Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT), has been part of a research team at the University of Oxford working together to write a therapist guide and parent workbook called Postpartum Depression: A Cognitive-Behavioural Approach to Recovery (Treatments That Work), which has recently been published in the US and will be available in the UK in June.
The evidence-based treatment is based on a protocol that was developed during a Wellcome Trust funded research trial, the Oxford Postnatal Treatment study, that investigated the efficacy of therapies in postnatal depression.
The resource for therapists provides a step-by-step guide of an evidence-based treatment for postpartum depression. The programme is divided into four modules which address:
- Assessment and goal setting, covering strengths and values as well as risks and challenges.
- Behavioural activation, encouraging helpful behaviours that reduce the depressive symptoms as well as how to counter unhelpful avoidance.
- Managing unhelpful thinking, working out how to address rumination and build self-compassion.
- Relapse prevention, working out what has helped and how to stay well.
As well as these four standard modules there are also additional sessions covering how to manage distressing intrusive thoughts and dealing with traumatic images/memories of the birth.
The guide can be used in conjunction with an accompanying workbook for the parent(s) undertaking this treatment, which included detailed worksheets, practical exercises and resources.
Charlotte said: “Depression in the postpartum period often goes unrecognised, leaving parents struggling with its impact. Early identification and treatment of postpartum depression is essential in order to promote the best outcome possible for parents and their babies.”
Dr Chris Ainsworth, Director of Psychological Therapies, AHPs and social workers, at NSFT said the new books highlight the impact that psychological professionals can have beyond direct clinical work in shaping practice, influencing standards and contributing to the global evidence base.
“Publishing two evidence-based resources of this quality, particularly within such an important area as perinatal mental health, reflects both the strength of our clinical expertise and our commitment to improving outcomes for women and families.
“It’s really encouraging to see work that brings together high-quality research with practical, accessible interventions. Resources like these are invaluable for our clinicians and aligns strongly with our focus on compassionate, person-centred care. This is something we should be really proud of as an organisation, particularly in demonstrating our commitment to perinatal mental health and the development of psychologically informed care across the system.”
Olivia, a participant in the original research trial who was part of the team writing the books said: “When I enrolled as a participant in the study, I was suicidal: by the time I completed the program outlined in the book, I was well on the road to recovery. I didn’t get better overnight, and at times it was hard going. However, the program gave me the tools to understand why I became so unwell, and it also gave me the knowledge I needed to keep myself safe.”
Dr Melanie White, Consultant Psychologist and Clinical Lead for Perinatal Services within the Trust, said perinatal mental illness has an impact on up to 20% of people giving birth.
She said: “Congratulations Charlotte, what an exciting achievement. This up-to-date guide, co-authored with the national NHS E advisor for perinatal mental health, will be an invaluable resource for clinicians.
“Due to the complexities of pregnancy and breastfeeding many women prefer psychological treatments in the first instance. The role of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as a treatment in perinatal mental health is essential.”
The books are available on Amazon as an e-book and in paperback from June.