The case for developing an online intervention to support midwives in work-related psychological distress

Background: Midwives experience episodes of work-related psychological distress owing to the emotionally difficult and traumatic work environments they endure. There is a need to develop interventions to effectively support midwives, as the wellbeing of midwives can be directly correlated with the quality and safety of maternity care. Aims: This project aims to make the case for the development of an online support intervention, designed to effectively support midwives in distress. Methods: Literature reviews were conducted, and midwives and other subject experts were recruited to participate in a Delphi study via a research blog. Findings: Following literature reviews and a structured consultation with 66 participants, it was found that the development of an online intervention designed to support midwives with work-related psychological distress should prioritise confidentiality and anonymity, along with 24-hour mobile access and a range of other components. Conclusions: This research makes the case for the development of an online intervention designed to support midwives in work-related psychological distress. The author invites all midwives to support and follow ongoing research in this area via The Academic Midwife page on Facebook.