Nature-based and Doula Support to Help Improve Sleep and Stress for New Mothers
We are looking for women who are within six weeks of giving birth to help us learn how doula support and spending time in nature can lower stress, improve sleep, and support overall wellbeing. This study looks at ways to help mothers recover and thrive during the early weeks after giving birth.
Why this Research Matters
About 1 in 5 mothers have anxiety and about two-thirds have poor sleep after having a baby. There is strong need for easy-to-access support that can help improve sleep, lower stress and anxiety, and help overall wellbeing. This study will look at how a nature-based support program, called Restorative Opportunities for Thriving or ROOT, may affect stress, sleep, and emotional health during the first 12 weeks after giving birth.
What to Expect
If you join the study, you will be randomly placed into one of two groups, like flipping a coin. One group will take part in the ROOT support program, and the other group will not. The ROOT program lasts 6 weeks, is led by a doula and focuses on nature-based mindfulness activities. If you are not in the ROOT group, you will attend six weekly sessions: one in-person session for 60 minutes and five group Zoom sessions, each also 60 minutes. Your baby is welcome to join you for all sessions. You will also be encouraged to practice the skills you are learn at home in between sessions. If you are placed in the other group, you will get usual support services provided by your doctor’s office. You will get gift cards for completing the surveys and wearing the sleep watches.
Study Duration
This study is 6 weeks long. The ROOT support program includes six 60-minute weekly sessions.
Who can Participate
You may be able to join this study if you:
- Are 18 years of age or older
- Can read and write in English
- Have given birth less than 6 weeks ago
- Live within 60-miles of Denver
Study ID
Protocol Number: 26-0124
Compensation Information
Meet the Team
charlotte.farewell@cuanschutz.edu
Principal Investigator