Effectiveness of the third wave cognitive behavior therapy for peripartum depression treatment - a systematic review

Background: Peripartum depression is a high prevalent mental health problem with serious consequences. Evidence about effective psychological interventions in treating perinatal depression has been increasing, but it lacks a comprehensive synthesis of findings focused on the effectiveness of the third-wave cognitive behavioral therapies approach. Objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of Third Wave psychological interventions in treating peripartum depression. Methods: A systematic review was conducted. The electronic databases MEDLINE (PubMed), PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials were searched, using a combination of different keywords. Data were independently extracted by two authors and a synthesis of the results was offered. Methodological quality was assessed by three authors, using ROB-2 and MINORS. Results: Six papers were included and reported, focused on the effectiveness of third wave cognitive behavior interventions in reducing depressive symptoms. Papers included Behavioral intervention (n ¼ 2), Mindfulness (n ¼ 2), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (n ¼ 1), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (n ¼ 1). Discussion: This systematic review showed that third wave cognitive behavior interventions are promising in effectiveness to reduce depression symptoms in peripartum women. However, more high-quality studies with extended follow-up periods are needed.