The Research Desk
WeChat-based PERMA intervention reduces grief and boosts wellbeing after pregnancy termination.
Effects of a WeChat-based PERMA model positive psychological intervention on Chinese women after termination of pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial.
- Resilience
- Growth
Ye, S., Xiong, X., Lin, Z., Wen, M., Huang, L., Li, Y., Liu, C.
In plain language
This study explores the impact of a digital psychological intervention, based on the PERMA model, delivered via WeChat to support Chinese women following the termination of a pregnancy. The intervention aimed to alleviate grief, enhance post-traumatic growth, and improve overall wellbeing during the postpartum period. Conducted as a randomized controlled trial, the study involved 118 participants, with one group receiving the PERMA-based support in addition to standard care, while the control group received only standard postpartum care.
The results showed that the women who participated in the WeChat-based intervention experienced significant reductions in grief and improvements in post-traumatic growth and subjective wellbeing compared to those who did not receive the intervention. The positive effects of the intervention were observed to increase over time, suggesting lasting benefits for the participants' psychological health.
Key findings
- The intervention group showed significantly greater reductions in grief at both one-month and three-month follow-ups.
- Participants in the intervention group experienced improvements in post-traumatic growth.
- The intervention led to enhanced subjective wellbeing compared to the control group.
- Effect sizes for the intervention's impact ranged from moderate to large.
- The digital intervention's benefits increased over time, indicating enduring effects.
Why it matters for flourishing
This research highlights the potential of digital interventions to support psychological wellbeing and resilience in women experiencing grief and trauma after pregnancy termination. It underscores the importance of accessible mental health support during vulnerable periods.
Try this today
Readers can consider digital platforms as viable options for psychological support during challenging times. Healthcare providers might integrate similar digital interventions into postpartum care to aid in emotional recovery and wellbeing enhancement.