Maternal Health, Post Partum Depression & Well Being. Addressing Maternal Mental Health: A Global Public Health Imperative

  • Unique Paper ID: 178336
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 12
  • PageNo: 4627-4632
  • Abstract:
  • Maternal mental health disorders, particularly during the perinatal period, represent a critical yet under-addressed global public health challenge. These conditions—most notably depression, anxiety, and, in severe cases, postpartum psychosis—affect up to 20% of women in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), significantly exceeding prevalence rates in high-income settings. Untreated maternal mental health issues compromise not only the well-being of mothers but also lead to adverse child health and developmental outcomes, including poor nutrition, stunted growth, and cognitive delays. This study synthesizes existing literature to assess the prevalence, impact, and response mechanisms surrounding maternal mental health globally, with a focus on LMICs. It identifies major research and policy gaps, such as limited context-specific data, underrepresentation of non-depressive disorders, and insufficient integration of mental health into maternal health services. Evidence supports the effectiveness of low-cost, community-based interventions delivered by non-specialist health workers, which have shown promise in improving outcomes for both mothers and children. The study concludes by calling for the urgent prioritization of maternal mental health within national and global health agendas, emphasizing the need for integrated, scalable, and culturally appropriate strategies aligned with Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals.

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