The transition to parenthood is a transformative period characterized by profound changes and heightened psychological vulnerability for parents. Perinatal depression is a common condition that can affect any parent, including birthing parents (typically mothers) and non-birthing parents (typically fathers). In Switzerland, there is currently no standardized practice for detecting or treating perinatal depression, which can prevent or delay access to support. This includes parents from traditional and non-traditional family models.

The goals of the project include investigating the specific health needs of parents from various family structures, adapting existing clinical practices to meet those needs, and creating a Swiss clinical guideline for the treatment of perinatal depression that takes gender differences into account.

To achieve these goals, we will conduct interviews with parents to capture their experiences and needs and focus groups with healthcare professionals to discuss their experiences and barriers in providing care. In co-design workshops, stakeholders will collaborate to develop solutions and inform service models. These service prototypes will be refined with user groups. Finally, international guidelines will be adapted to the Swiss context to develop a comprehensive clinical guideline.

The project’s expected outcomes include an inclusive care model that addresses the needs of all parents and family types, a central digital platform for easier access to services, a high-quality clinical guideline to support clinicians in detecting and treating perinatal depression, and a community of practice that enables ongoing collaboration between healthcare professionals and user associations to sustainably improve care.

Ultimately, this project aims to create a more inclusive and effective way to ensure that all parents with perinatal depression receive the necessary support in a timely way.