Efficacy of an Internet-Based Depression Intervention to Improve Rates of Treatment in Adolescent Mothers

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND: Approximately 400,000 adolescents give birth in the US annually. Although one-half experience depressive symptoms, less than 25% comply with referrals for depression evaluation and treatment. The current study tested the effectiveness of an internet based depression intervention on seeking depression treatment. METHODS: Based upon the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the intervention included vignettes, questions and answers, and resources. Before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and two-weeks later the adolescent mothers (n=151) answered questions related to TPB variables and depression treatment. Data were compared to adolescent mothers (n=138) in the control group. Data were collected in community organizations or home visits for the control group. Adolescent mothers in the intervention group answered questions and completed the intervention from a computer of their choice. RESULTS: The adolescents were primarily African American (89.2%); less than high school educated (51.7%); had given birth in last year (97.1%); with a mean age 18.2 years. The intervention led to significant changes in attitude, perceived control, intention to seek mental health treatment, and actually seeking depression treatment. CONCLUSIONS/DISCUSSION: Untreated postpartum depression dramatically impacts a mother’s relationships with her child, her functioning at work and school, health care seeking behaviors, mothering skills, and her development as well as the development of her child. An Internet based depression intervention is an inexpensive method to increase rates of depression treatment.