Katie Jones

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Health & Wellbeing (2020 cohort)

My research focuses on the emotional wellbeing of families, particularly the social and cognitive mechanisms underpinning anxiety, depression, and psychological distress. I aim to identify risk factors and opportunities to support families during high-risk periods, such as pregnancy, postpartum, and serious health diagnoses like cancer. Alongside risk factor research, I am also exploring the potential of eHealth tools to support these populations.

My doctoral project uses mixed methods to investigate postpartum anxiety (PPA) through a systematic review, a cross-sectional online survey, and a longitudinal study. This research focuses on modifiable social and cognitive factors – such as repetitive negative thinking, perceived parenting self-efficacy, and social support – and is co-produced with NHS and third-sector stakeholders, as well as people with lived experience. The research aims to inspire the development of early interventions and guide further research to improve perinatal mental health outcomes.
Beyond my PhD, I have co-authored research on perinatal mental health and the psychological impact of lung cancer, working with research teams in the UK and Australia. I’m currently involved in two projects expanding on this work in collaboration with local and national charities and NHS partners.

I’m deeply committed to impact and engagement. I’ve led patient and public involvement (PPI) for several grant applications and sit on NHS steering groups to advocate for perinatal mental health improvements. I also lead a monthly research group for Early Career Researchers (ECRs) in the Society of Reproductive and Infant Psychology (SRIP), supporting international ECRs through virtual meetings and workshops, and have collaborated on research with SRIP members from Australia, Switzerland, and the UK. 

Most recent PhD publication: Risk factors associated with postpartum anxiety in Australia, Europe, and North America: A systematic review and narrative synthesis (2025-03-15)
Jones, Katie; Folliard, Kelda; Di Malta, Gina; Oates, John; Gilbert, Leah and Harrison, Virginia
Journal of Affective Disorders, 373 (pp. 478-494)

Other publications are available at https://www.open.ac.uk/people/kj5634#tab2