scholarly journals A mixed-methods feasibility study of an intervention to improve men’s mental health and wellbeing during their transition to fatherhood

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sharin Baldwin ◽  
Mary Malone ◽  
Trevor Murrells ◽  
Jane Sandall ◽  
Debra Bick
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Outcome Measures ◽  
Transition To Parenthood ◽  
Postnatal Period ◽  
Retention Rates ◽  
Health And Wellbeing ◽  
Guide System ◽  
First Time ◽  
Transition To Fatherhood

Abstract Background Many health visiting services in England use the Promotional Guide system with mothers and fathers, an intervention to support their transition to parenthood, but there is little known about its use and effectiveness, especially with fathers. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility and acceptability of the Promotional Guide system with first-time fathers and pilot potential outcome measures to assess their mental health and wellbeing. Methods A mixed methods prospective observational cohort study. Expectant first-time fathers were recruited from four London (UK) local authority boroughs. Data were collected through online pre and post intervention questionnaires, and semi-structured telephone interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analysed using framework analysis. Results Eighty-six fathers were interested in participating; 7 did not meet inclusion criteria and 79 were invited to complete the baseline questionnaire. Questionnaires completed by 45 men at both timepoints were included in the final analysis. Mean and standard deviations were calculated for all outcomes, showing a slight deterioration in the scores across all measures in the postnatal period compared to the antenatal. Ten of these men were also interviewed. Six major categories were identified: 1) Experience of health visitor contact, 2) Experience of Promotional Guides, 3) Experience of perinatal health services, 4) Experience of fatherhood, 5) Fathers’ mental health and wellbeing, and 6) Experience of the research process. While antenatal and postnatal outcomes were collected from 45 first-time fathers, none had received the intervention in its entirety. This study identified major gaps in the implementation of the Promotional Guide system with fathers. Conclusion This study assessed recruitment of first-time fathers, time to complete recruitment, and retention rates and identified outcome measures that could be used in a future definitive study. While it wasn’t possible to examine the potential changes following the use of the Promotional Guide system, the study reported on the changes in the fathers’ ‘states’ in the antenatal and postnatal period. It provided a narrative on whether first-time fathers found it acceptable to be asked about their mental health and wellbeing, highlighted their specific needs during their transition to fatherhood, and how they wanted to be supported. It also identified barriers to implementation of the Promotional Guide system by health visitors, which need to be addressed prior to any future research into this intervention. These findings have a number of implications for researchers, health professionals, health service managers, commissioners, policy makers and parents.

scholarly journals NEW DAD STUDY (NEST): A mixed-methods feasibility study of an intervention to improve men’s mental health and wellbeing during their transition to fatherhood

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sharin Baldwin ◽  
Mary Malone ◽  
Trevor Murrells ◽  
Jane Sandall ◽  
Debra Bick
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Transition To Parenthood ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Framework Analysis ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Health And Wellbeing ◽  
Guide System ◽  
First Time ◽  
Transition To Fatherhood

Abstract Background: Many health visiting services in England use the Promotional Guide system with mothers and fathers, an intervention to support their transition to parenthood, but there is little known about its use and effectiveness, especially with fathers. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility and acceptability of the Promotional Guide system with first-time fathers and pilot potential outcome measures to assess their mental health and wellbeing. Methods: A mixed methods prospective observational cohort study. Expectant first-time fathers were recruited from four London (UK) local authority boroughs. Data were collected through online pre and post intervention questionnaires, and semi-structured telephone interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analysed using framework analysis. Results: Eighty-six fathers were interested in participating; 7 men did not meet inclusion criteria and 79 were invited to complete the baseline questionnaire. Questionnaires completed by 45 men at both timepoints were included in the final analysis. Ten of these men were also interviewed. Six major categories were identified: 1) Experience of health visitor contact, 2) Experience of Promotional Guides, 3) Experience of perinatal health services, 4) Experience of fatherhood, 5) Fathers’ mental health and wellbeing, and 6) Experience of the research process. While antenatal and postnatal outcomes were collected from 45 first-time fathers, none had received the intervention in its entirety. This study identified major gaps in the implementation of the Promotional Guide system with fathers. Conclusion: This study highlighted first-time fathers’ mental health and wellbeing needs during their transition to fatherhood, and how they wanted to be supported. It also identified barriers to implementation of the Promotional Guide system by health visitors, which need to be addressed prior to any future research into this intervention. These findings have a number of implications for researchers, health professionals, health service managers, commissioners, policy makers and parents.

scholarly journals Promoting Postpartum Mental Health in Fathers: Recommendations for Nurse Practitioners

2017 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 221-228 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sheena V. Kumar ◽  
John L. Oliffe ◽  
Mary T. Kelly
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Postpartum Depression ◽  
Nurse Practitioners ◽  
Scoping Review ◽  
Postpartum Period ◽  
Postnatal Period ◽  
Learning Preferences ◽  
The Individual ◽  
First Time ◽  
Transition To Fatherhood

The transition to fatherhood can challenge the mental health of first-time fathers and heighten their risk for postpartum depression (PPD). Paternal PPD not only affects the individual, but relationships with partners and children as well. This scoping review explores paternal PPD, highlighting the factors for and impacts of paternal PPD, the experiences of first-time fathers during the postnatal period, including their knowledge gaps and learning preferences. Drawing on the scoping review findings, recommendations are made for postnatal programs to improve the inclusion of new fathers amid describing how nurse practitioners can promote men’s mental health in the postpartum period.

scholarly journals A qualitative exploratory study of UK first-time fathers’ experiences, mental health and wellbeing needs during their transition to fatherhood

BMJ Open ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (9) ◽  
pp. e030792 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sharin Baldwin ◽  
Mary Malone ◽  
Jane Sandall ◽  
Debra Bick
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Early Years ◽  
Mental Illnesses ◽  
Current Evidence ◽  
Full Time ◽  
Perceived Needs ◽  
Health And Wellbeing ◽  
First Time ◽  
Transition To Fatherhood

ObjectivesTo develop an understanding of men’s experiences of first-time fatherhood, their mental health and wellbeing needs.DesignA qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using framework analysis.SettingTwo large National Health Service integrated care trusts covering four London (UK) local authority boroughs.ParticipantsFirst-time fathers with children under 12 months of age were included. Maximum variation sampling was used, with 21 fathers recruited. Ten of these men described their ethnic background as Indian, seven as White British, one as Spanish, one as Black African, one as Black Caribbean and one as Pakistani. Participants’ ages ranged from 20 to over 60 years; completion of full-time education ranged from high school certificate to doctorate level; and annual income ranged from £15 000 to over £61 000. Non-English speaking fathers, those experiencing bereavement following neonatal death, stillbirth, pregnancy loss, sudden infant death, and fathers with existing severe mental illnesses were excluded.ResultsNine major categories were identified: ‘preparation for fatherhood’, ‘rollercoaster of feelings’, ‘new identity’, ‘challenges and impact’, ‘changed relationship: we’re in a different place’, ‘coping and support’, ‘health professionals and services: experience, provision and support’, ‘barriers to accessing support’, and ‘men’s perceived needs: what fathers want’. Resident (residing with their partner and baby) and non-resident fathers in this study highlighted broadly similar needs, as did fathers for whom English was their first language and those for whom it was not. A key finding of this study relates to men’s own perceived needs and how they would like to be supported during the perinatal period, contributing to the current evidence.ConclusionsThis study provides insight into first-time fathers’ experiences during their transition to fatherhood, with important implications for healthcare policy makers, service providers and professionals for how perinatal and early years services are planned and provided for both new parents.

Acceptability, Engagement and Exploratory Outcomes of an Emotional Wellbeing App: Mixed Methods Preliminary Evaluation and Descriptive Analysis (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amelia Eisenstadt ◽  
Shaun Liverpool ◽  
Athina- Marina Metaxa ◽  
Courtney Carlsson ◽  
Roberta Maria Ciuvat
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Descriptive Analysis ◽  
Preliminary Evidence ◽  
Sufficient Information ◽  
Preliminary Evaluation ◽  
Emotional Wellbeing ◽  
User Testing ◽  
Real World Data ◽  
Health And Wellbeing

BACKGROUND There is growing evidence highlighting a significant gap between mental health and wellbeing needs and available support. Digital interventions, such as mental health apps, have been identified as an appropriate medium for addressing the problem. However, a number of apps are being developed and made available without the relevant evidence base. Thus, there is a need to conduct user testing and early evaluations of new apps to provide sufficient information for users and prescribers. OBJECTIVE The primary aim of this feasibility study is to describe the acceptability, engagement, and preliminary outcomes of using an app (Paradym) designed to promote emotional wellbeing and positive mental health. METHODS This is a mixed methods single-arm study with a pre- and post- design, aggregate with digital analytics data. We anonymously collected real world data on demographics, mental health and wellbeing, and usability and acceptance using validated questionnaires and open ended-questions. Participants were asked to download the app and use the intervention for a minimum of 2 weeks before completing follow up measures. Google Analytics was used to record levels of engagement with the app. Chi Square and t-tests were conducted to analyze quantitative data, and a thematic analysis approach was adopted for qualitative data. RESULTS A total of 116 participants accessed the study, of which 91 users downloaded the app. The sample was diverse in terms of ethnicity (43.5% belonging to minority ethnic groups) and included majority females (67.24%) between the ages 18-25 from the USA. Participants who completed the study (n=34) provided favorable feedback in terms of the app’s content, functionality and underlying principles. Although usability feedback varied across items, a high percentage of participants found that the app was easy to use. Based on descriptive data, the mean mental health and wellbeing scores improved. Post hoc analyses indicated that the reduction in PHQ-9 depression scores (t33 = -2.16) and the change in scores on one of the wellbeing measures (WHO-5) (t33 = 2.87) were statistically significant. No adverse events were reported and anxiety levels of the participants were found to be mild during the intervention period. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study are encouraging and potentially show preliminary evidence of effectiveness. The findings also suggest scope for further research with underrepresented groups, such as ethnic minority populations. Furthermore, the research provides valuable information for future app upgrades and further evaluations of the intervention. CLINICALTRIAL Eisenstadt A, Liverpool S. User Testing Service Evaluation. doi:10.17605/OSF.IO/TVJBA.

scholarly journals The Mental Health Benefits of Purposeful Activities in Public Green Spaces in Urban and Semi-Urban Neighbourhoods: A Mixed-Methods Pilot and Proof of Concept Study

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (15) ◽  
pp. 2712 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter A. Coventry ◽  
Chris Neale ◽  
Alison Dyke ◽  
Rachel Pateman ◽  
Steve Cinderby
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Citizen Science ◽  
Green Space ◽  
Health Benefits ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Green Spaces ◽  
Health And Wellbeing ◽  
Mental Health Benefits ◽  
Public Green Space

Access and exposure to public green space might be critical to health promotion and prevention of mental ill health. However, it is uncertain if differential health and mental health benefits are associated with undertaking different activities in public green space. We evaluated the health and wellbeing benefits of different activities in different locations of public green spaces in urban and semi-urban areas. We used a mixed-methods before-and-after design. Volunteers at three conservation sites were recruited and took part in group guided walks, practical conservation tasks or citizen science. Repeated measures one-way ANOVAs with Bonferroni correction assessed the relationship between location and activity type on change in acute subjective mood from pre- to post-activity, measured with the UWIST Mood Adjective Checklist (UWIST-MACL). Qualitative semi-structured interviews were undertaken and analysed thematically to explore participants’ perceptions about the health and wellbeing benefits of activities in public green space. Forty-five participants were recruited, leading to 65 independent observations. Walking, conservation and citizen science in public green space were associated with improved mood. Across all participants acute subjective mood improved across all domains of the UWIST-MACL. There was a significant association between reduction in stress and location (p = 0.009). Qualitatively participants reported that conservation and citizen science conferred co-benefits to the environment and individual health and well-being and were perceived as purposeful. Undertaking purposeful activity in public green space has the potential to promote health and prevent mental ill health.

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