This study involved a randomised controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the efficacy of a new mindfulness-based cognitive behavioural therapy (MBCT) mobile app, called Rover. Rover was designed to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in perinatal fathers with moderate psychological distress. The active control group used MoodMonitor, a mood tracking app. Primary outcomes included depression (EPDS), anxiety, and stress (DASS-21); secondary outcomes included social support, parenting self-efficacy, and couple relationship quality. The intervention was delivered over 4 weeks, with an additional 8-week follow-up for the intervention group.
Recruitment occurred in 2021; intervention lasted 4 weeks, with an 8-week follow-up for the intervention group.
Sampling frame: Perinatal fathers (during pregnancy and postpartum) in Australia experiencing moderate symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress. Participants were recruited via online platforms, healthcare settings, and community outreach.
Study website: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=app.getschema.rover
Meet the team
Key reference
Teague, S. J., Shatte, A. B., Fuller-Tyszkiewicz, M., & Hutchinson, D. M. (2025). Mobile app-based intervention for paternal perinatal depression, anxiety, and stress: A randomised controlled trial. Journal of Affective Disorders, 382, 325-335.
Contact
Dr Sam Teague
sam.teague@jcu.edu.au
+6174781 6354
Primary institution
Collaborating institutions
Major funding source