Recognition of maternal mental health has been underprioritized on the health agenda for many low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), despite being fundamental to the psychosocial well-being of women and children. Common perinatal mental disorders (CPMDs) affect the quality of life of both mother and child and have direct and potentially long-term impacts on general well-being and social and economic participation. Maternal mental health conditions, including CPMDs, alcohol use, and psychosis are key causes of pregnancy-related morbidity and mortality. This summary outlines the concept of comprehensive and integrated primary mental health care that considers the interaction of physiological, social, and psychological factors for mental health care provision at the primary and community level as a solution to address maternal mental health.
Key Findings
- Delivery of services to manage mental health conditions at the primary level need to be incorporated into routine antenatal and postnatal care services to reach more women at minimal cost.
- Improvements in maternal and child health outcomes can be achieved through a comprehensive and holistic model of care, including identification of mental health conditions during antenatal and postnatal visits, followed by psychosocial support and appropriate referrals, as needed.
- Improvements in education, employment, and implementation of laws to prevent violence against women are essential to improving maternal mental health.
Additional technical tools and guidance to support countries in the development of mental health policies, plans, and laws to promote improved quality and access include:
- WHO Quality Rights Toolkit, WHO, 2012
- WHO Mental Health Policy and Service Guidance Package, WHO, 2004
- Inter-Agency Standing Committee Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings, Inter-Agency Standing Committee, 2007