Design and Pilot Development of an mHealth Application for the Prevention and Early Detection of Postpartum Depression in Greece

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects a substantial proportion of women globally and is often underdiagnosed due to barriers in screening, stigma, and limited treatment access. This study presents the design and pilot evaluation of a mHealth application (“HeartHabit”) for the prevention and early detection of PPD among Greek-speaking mothers. An alpha version of the application was evaluated through an online survey with 30 women within the first postpartum year, during which a walkthrough video of the app was presented. Usability and app quality were assessed via the System Usability Scale (SUS) and a qualitative version of the user Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS) respectively, adopting a mixed-methods approach. Demographics, and mood and stress screening data were also captured. Quantitative data were analysed via descriptive statistics and qualitative responses via Framework Analysis. Results indicated high perceived usability (mean SUS = 83.7/100). Qualitative findings highlighted the importance of practical usability, self-regulation tools, personalisation, and connectivity with healthcare professionals. Privacy, data transparency, and user control over personal data were perceived as critical for trust. The assistive use of the application combined with formal care, or as at-home support for when treatment access is limited, was suggested. Larger, controlled trials, clinical implementation protocols and clinicians’ training are needed to promote the app’s safe integration into formal care. This mixed-methods evaluation, incorporating usability assessment and patient involvement, may offer a useful paradigm for early-stage, digital mental health intervention development.