SWAN: Self-healing and Wellbeing interventions through Existential Advocacy and Narrative inquiry. A pilot case study to promote maternal mental health in East London

Birth trauma has been reported as a global health concern with devastating effects on maternal mental well-being. Mothers, especially from ethnic minorities in London, face healthcare disparities, resulting in increased delayed goals of care and associated distress. This study aimed to understand the nature of birth trauma and identify associated psycho-social factors, existential and spiritual care needs contributing to postpartum maternal mental health in East London. The purpose of this research was also to evaluate the effectiveness of SOPHIE- Self-exploration through Ontological, Phenomenological, and Humanistic, Ideological, and Existential expressions, a reflective framework fostering resilience and self-healing through existential advocacy, using art and narrative inquiry to promote maternal wellbeing. A pilot case study was conducted using pre and post-one-group intervention (n=5) design. Quantitative data was collected using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Generalized Anxiety Disorders (GAD-7), and The Brief Resiliency Scale (BRS), at pre and post-intervention. Descriptive analysis, including frequency and means, was used to analyse depression, anxiety, and resilience. Qualitative data findings were gathered using artwork and a focus group study. SOPHIE as a reflective framework with art workshops, facilitated a deeper exploration of several existential and spiritual care aspects. Art-based activities allowed participants to acknowledge their self-care needs and articulate meaning-making and creative expressions. The study revealed disparities in access to healthcare services and social support, and a need to inform policies and programs.