Becoming a parent is a joyful moment in life, but it can also bring challenges and, in some cases, mental health problems.
Research shows that around one in five mothers and one in ten fathers suffer from a mental illness during pregnancy and in the first year of their baby’s life. Perinatal and child mental health focuses on promoting the emotional well-being of parents and infants.
The onset of parenthood brings changes in relationships, roles, and bonding dynamics. Feelings of loneliness and inadequate social support can contribute to depressive symptoms. Parents’ mental health problems have far-reaching effects on their families and support systems. Unfortunately, many parents struggle in silence due to stigma and limited access to services.
This research project aims to close these gaps by identifying areas for improvement, enhancing early detection, and facilitating better access to services.
A collaborative and multidisciplinary team addresses perinatal mental health, designs support services, implements targeted interventions, and evaluates their effectiveness. Ultimately, the goal is to improve the overall well-being of affected families in Tyrol.
