Creative Play Sessions Prescribed Socially to Help Reduce Postnatal Depression and Improve Parental Well-Being

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Leeds and the University of Huddersfield has demonstrated that socially prescribed creative play programs can significantly enhance mental health among new parents and caregivers. The program, called "Let's Play," involves a series of five-week, free, community-based sessions designed for parents with children under two years old, focusing on fostering child development, building community, and supporting parental mental health.

Developed by the arts charity Theater Hullabaloo in Darlington, the initiative aims to boost parental confidence, address speech and language delays, and combat postnatal depression. Participants are referred by GPs, health visitors, or social prescribing link workers, emphasizing the program's societal integration. Each weekly session centers around singing, storytelling, and playful activities in a relaxed setting, encouraging consistent attendance to promote relationship-building among families.

Research involving 57 parents across three cohorts assessed changes in postnatal depression using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and monitored trauma-related stress via the City Birth Trauma Scale. Results showed a decrease in depression symptoms over the program's duration, with continued improvement observed during subsequent courses. However, the study also highlighted that parents with birth-related trauma PTSD are more vulnerable to postnatal depression, indicating the need for trauma-informed approaches in future interventions.

The program's success was reinforced by participants' feedback. Kellie, a mother involved in two cohorts, shared that the sessions alleviated feelings of self-doubt and loneliness, providing a welcoming space to discuss parenting challenges. Inspired by the program, Kellie now actively engages her child in music activities, which have contributed positively to their emotional well-being.

Expert insights from Dr. Paige Davis of the University of Leeds emphasize how creativity can address unmet parental mental health needs, especially during the isolating early days of parenting. The research suggests that integrating arts-based social prescribing into NHS services could offer a scalable method to support families.

Looking ahead, the researchers advocate for broader implementation of creative, arts-based interventions within healthcare frameworks, aiming to improve mental health outcomes for parents and promote healthier family environments. Further research will explore how such programs compare to standard playgroups and their long-term impact on both parents and children.

This pioneering study underscores the importance of creative social activities in supporting mental health, with potential to transform community health services and parenting support systems.

For more detailed findings, visit: [BMC Psychology - DOI: 10.1186/s40359-025-02578-3]

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-socially-creative-play-sessions-postnatal.html