Perceptions of a Community-Based Perinatal Mental Health Intervention

Mental health concerns are the leading complication of childbearing and have long-lasting impacts on maternal outcomes and infants' social, emotional and cognitive development. The Growing Hope Kit was founded on an evidence-based intervention (hope box) and developed using the Social-Ecological Model, positive psychology framework and Sources of Strength. The Kit included information and activities to enhance distress tolerance, coping strategies based on cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapies, mental wellness and parenting skills. The Kit was pilot tested using cross-sectional evaluation of end-user perceptions through a statewide prenatal education program in a rural state. Participants who reported a mental health and/or substance use challenge received a brief intervention, referral and Growing Hope Kit. A 27-item survey was emailed 4 weeks after Kit distribution. Of 126/247 (51%) surveys received, 11 were incomplete and removed for a final sample of 115. Initial impressions were excited (62%), grateful (61%) and interested (57%). Most liked the look and size (94%). The most used, and useful items were the coloring book, mental health book and list of coping tools. Least used, although still useful, were the gun lock and specific handouts. Kits increased coping strategies (74%), parenting skills (61%) and access to mental health services (46%). Some reported decreased symptoms and harmful behaviors (38%-41%). Growing Hope Kits appear to be acceptable, increase access to tools/resources, parenting skills and coping strategies, and have some positive impacts on symptoms/behaviors, although causation cannot be assumed. Future research with a control group is needed.