‘Maternal mental health crisis threatens child development in KP’

ISLAMABAD: A World Bank study highlights alarming levels of maternal mental health issues in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan, showing significant impacts on early childhood development (ECD). The research, conducted between December 2023 and February 2024, reveals high rates of depression, anxiety, and parenting stress among mothers of children under six, exacerbated by stressors like food insecurity, financial instability, and exposure to domestic violence and community crime.
Key Findings:
Depression and anxiety rates: 28% of women and 58% of pregnant women visiting health facilities in KP were found to be depressed. Additionally, 21% of women displayed symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.
Impact on children: Maternal mental health significantly affects children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. Increased depression and anxiety correlate with behavioral issues, reduced emotional regulation, and limited social competence among children aged 0-6.
Stressors: Poverty, inadequate access to education, flooding, and social discrimination further exacerbate these mental health challenges.
Rural vs. urban divide: Women in rural areas experience higher rates of mental health issues due to limited resources and educational opportunities.
Recommendations:
The report underscores the urgent need for integrated mental health services tailored to at-risk communities. Suggested measures include addressing systemic poverty, enhancing access to pre-primary education, and strengthening social safety nets like cash transfer programs.
This comprehensive survey, conducted in collaboration with the Center for Evaluation and Development, focused on households within public school catchment areas, excluding newly merged districts, ensuring a broad representation of KP communities.