Research Ongoing

Early Parenthood with Arthritis: Understanding How Mental Health is Affected and Identifying Support Needs

Scientific Study Title:

Mental Health in Individuals with Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases During the Transition to Parenthood: A Mixed Methods Study to Identify Associated Factors and Support Needs

Start Date:

2025

End Date:

2026

Research Category

Health Habits & Wellbeing

Ready to Participate?

Life-changing arthritis research is only possible with your help!

Why do this research?

Reason For Research

People with autoimmune arthritis face added challenges as new parents that can negatively impact their mental health. Our study aims to better understand the mental health of parents with a chronic illness, and identify support needs.

Methodology

Execution of Research

Participants will be asked to fill out an online survey asking about their disease, symptoms, mental health difficulties they may have faced, parenting experiences, and how their healthcare providers can better support them.

Who Can Participate?

You will be eligible if you:

Have autoimmune arthritis (including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile onset arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Sjögren’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis (scleroderma), or arthritis from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or Crohn’s disease)
Are at least 18 years old
Have a child aged 12 and under

Participation Involves:

You will be asked to fill out an online survey (30-40 min) and you will receive a $15 gift card.
A small group of participants will be invited to a virtual/telephone interview to get more in-depth information.

How to Join the Study:

If interested, please fill out our sign-up form here: www.ARDs-Parenthood.ca

A member of the research team will contact you to enroll you.