Perinatal mental health in India in the states of Haryana and Telangana: a district level situational analysis

Abstract

Background: Women in the perinatal phase are at an increased risk of experiencing mental health problems, but in low and middle-income countries such as India, perinatal mental health (PMH) care provision is often scarce. This situational analysis presents the formative findings of the SMARThealth Pregnancy and Mental Health (PRAMH) project (Votruba et al.). It investigates the nature and availability of maternal mental health policies, legislation, systems, and services, as well as relevant context and community in India on a national, state (Haryana and Telangana) and district (Faridabad and Siddipet) level. Findings : A desktop, scoping review and informal interviews with mental health experts were conducted. Socio-demographic and maternal health indicators vary between Haryana and Telangana. No specific national PMH policy or plan is available. General mental health services exist at a district level within Siddipet and Faridabad but no specific PMH services have been identified. Implications: National and state level plans and policies will be critical in establishing services to bridge the existing PMH treatment gap. The findings from this situational analysis will inform the development of a future intervention for PMH in rural communities in Telangana and Haryana