The Need for Integrated Mental Health Support during Pregnancy: Bridging the Gap between Research and Practice

Description

Page: 1121-1124

Vaibhav Murhar and Bhupinder Singh (Department of Psychology, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh)

Maternal mental health during pregnancy is a critical global public health issue, with approximately 10-20% of women experiencing mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety during the perinatal period. These conditions are linked to adverse outcomes for both mothers and children, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and impaired child development. Despite growing evidence on the effectiveness of social support, physical activity, and emotional regulation strategies in promoting maternal mental well-being, these approaches remain underutilized in routine antenatal care. This paper argues for the integration of evidence-based mental health strategies into existing antenatal care services to create a holistic approach that addresses the psychological, emotional, and physical needs of pregnant women. Current antenatal care systems are often fragmented, with limited mental health screening, resource constraints, and a lack of coordination between healthcare providers. Social support interventions, such as peer support programs, have been shown to reduce antenatal depression, while physical activity has demonstrated significant benefits in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, emotional regulation strategies, including mindfulness-based interventions and cognitive-behavioral therapy, are effective in enhancing maternal resilience and reducing stress. A comprehensive framework for integrating mental health support into antenatal care is proposed, including the adoption of collaborative care models, universal mental health screening, training for healthcare providers, and leveraging digital health solutions. Such integration has the potential to improve maternal and child outcomes while addressing global health priorities, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Bridging the gap between research and practice in maternal mental health requires systemic changes to antenatal care delivery. By prioritizing integrated mental health support, healthcare systems can create equitable and effective care models that promote the well-being of pregnant women and their children.