This research study launched on May 5 at the Maison de naissance du Lac-Saint-Louis, will pilot and assess a mental health screening and referral protocol for midwives. Led by Dr. Tina Montreuil (Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre) and Dr. Kieran O’Donnell (Yale University, Douglas Research Centre) in collaboration with our Youth Program Directorate, the study aims to build workers’ capacity to provide support to clients who need mental health and psychosocial support services. Participating midwives will learn to detect the symptoms of depression in pregnant clients during their clinical care.
The study will also ensure that clients receive prompt treatment by creating links with community partners and free online resources in order to lighten the load on mental health services. The project serves as a conduit between the midwives and CLSC-based services. It also plays a key role in fluidity and communication between facilities.
At our CIUSSS this is an opportunity to establish clear guidelines for screening and referral, and to reduce barriers between front-line teams. The midwives at the Maison de naissance have enthusiastically agreed to take part in this study. They hope that it will contribute to both the well-being of their clients and to the implementation of best practices related to perinatal mental health.
The results of this study will lead to clear recommendations on universal perinatal mental health screening for the Québec government and other network stakeholders. This project is made possible by financial support from the Chamandy Foundation.