PSYCHOSOCIAL INTERVENTIONS FOR PERINATAL DEPRESSION IN LOW AND MIDDLE INCOME COUNTRIES

Abstract

Perinatal depression is an incapacitating condition, associated with negative outcomes for both the mother and the child. It is perceived as a significant health concern, both in the high income and low to middle income countries (LAMIC). In this commentary, we investigated the potential effectiveness of task-shifting based psychosocial interventions targeting perinatal depression, moderate its antagonistic maternal and pediatric consequences and be effectively incorporated in poorly resourced health frameworks in LAMIC. Many multiphasic and task-shifting interventions including CBT, psychoeducation, interpersonal and exercise-based therapies were reviewed and were found to have a positive impact on perinatal depression. Such interventions are also cost effective and can become part of the management plan for a mother suffering from perinatal depression and lacking access to specialist care.