A new, online course supports people navigating symptoms of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
On World Maternal Mental Health Day, the Government of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina unveiled a new, online, province-wide mental health initiative designed to support new and expecting parents through the challenges of early parenthood.
Developed by the University of Regina’s Online Therapy Unit, the Wellbeing Course for New and Expecting Parents provides support to individuals navigating symptoms of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Funded by a $380,000 investment from the provincial government, the eight-week course provides therapist-guided support grounded in Internet-delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (ICBT).
“We want new mothers and their partners to know they are not alone if they face challenges with their mental health,” said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill. “This free online course offers easy, flexible access to mental health support from anywhere in the province, and our government is proud to work with the University of Regina to provide it.”
Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill announcing funding for the Wellbeing Course for the New and Expecting Parents course at the U of R. (Photo by Trevor Hopkin)
Dr. Heather Hadjistavropoulos, psychology professor and director of the Online Therapy Unit, said her team is grateful for this important investment from the Government of Saskatchewan.
Dr. Heather Hadjistavropoulos at the launch of the new Online Therapy Unit course. (Photo by Trevor Hopkin)
“Our new course provides a much-needed doorway to care, meeting new and expecting parents—both birthing and non-birthing—with compassion, flexibility, and evidence-based support. For those facing barriers like distance, time, or privacy, this funding means we can be there when and where they need us most.”
Since 2015, nearly 14,000 Saskatchewan residents have accessed ICBT programs. The Online Therapy Unit also offers free courses for public safety personnel, students, individuals wanting to change their relationship with alcohol, and those dealing with sleep difficulties.
“At the University of Regina, we are committed to research that makes a real difference in people’s lives,” said Dr. Jeff Keshen, president and vice-chancellor. “The launch of the Wellbeing Course for New and Expecting Parents is a powerful example of responding to needs within our community and turning research into action to support mental health, strengthen families, and build more resilient communities across Saskatchewan.”
(l to r) The Honourable Jeremy Cockrill (Minister of Health), Dr. Heather Hadjistavropoulos (psychology professor and director of the Online Therapy Unit), Dr. Jeff Keshen (U of R president and vice-chancellor), and Dr. Chris Yost (U of R Vice-President of Research) (Photo by Trevor Hopkin)
Clients began accessing the course in February and have already noticed a difference
“More people should know about and take the course because it is so helpful,” said one anonymous client following ICBT treatment. “(The course) makes you feel that normalcy. These feelings with becoming a parent are normal, and there are solutions.”
Keshen says that many new parents quietly face challenges during what is often assumed to be a joyful time.
“The reality is – and my wife and I can attest to this – that becoming a parent is life-changing, but it can also be overwhelming. Parents often feel pressure to “have it all together,” and may not know where to turn when they don’t. This course offers them a place to start,” said Keshen.
For more information about the Wellbeing Course for New and Expecting Parents, please visit: www.onlinetherapyuser.ca/wcnep/.
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