Canadore College will be leading research into the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on services for new parents experiencing postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.
The study will be led by Canadore’s Dr. Anna-Liisa Mottonen, Faculty, School of Access, Language and Preparatory Studies and Dr. Christina DeRoche, Director of Canadore’s Research Centre.
It will examine both the experiences of parents in northern communities and the practices and knowledge of providers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The focus of the study is to assess the landscape of Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD) services and experiences in North Bay and surrounding communities, where officials say rural and remote healthcare are a daily reality, and recruitment and retention of qualified professionals is a significant issue.
“The rates of PMADs post COVID-19 have increased to 1 in 3 women experiencing symptoms, with access to support made more difficult due to the virtual nature of service delivery and the isolation experienced,” says Dr. DeRoche.
Both researchers say the project provides the potential for further education and training for staff and direct evidence and data to help inform policies and services.
“Hopefully, what we learn through the research will assist with identifying and addressing gaps in services available and barriers to service,” says Dr. Mottonen.
The project is funded by a Mental Health Research Canada and MITACS studentship.