Perspectives and support needs for a spouse-inclusive digital intervention for perinatal depression and anxiety: a qualitative study

Purpose: To support digital self-management of perinatal depression and anxiety, this study explored perspectives on, and support needs for, a spouse-inclusive digital intervention among perinatal women with depression and anxiety and their spouses.Methods: The data were obtained from in-depth interviews with 20 perinatal women and 15 men who were spouses of perinatal women and attended antenatal or postnatal check-ups at selected obstetrics and gynecology clinics in Pahang and Kuala Lumpur.Results: Three main themes and seven subthemes were identified: adjusting to a new period of life, dealing with perinatal distress, and mobilizing needs and support. Perinatal women emphasized the importance of spousal support in managing emotional distress, whereas spouses described both their supportive role and the challenges they faced in providing support. Both women and spouses recommended a user-friendly online intervention for learning about maternal mental health. They identified the need for education on coping strategies, self-screening, perinatal care, childcare management, communication skills, and the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety.Conclusion: Most women and spouses agreed that a digital intervention could help address emotional distress, depression, and anxiety, particularly because conventional approaches may be limited by high attrition rates and social barriers.