Editorial
Maternal mental health in Pakistan is a silent crisis that demands urgent attention. With anxiety, depression, and stress being common during and after pregnancy, these conditions remain largely undiagnosed and untreated, often due to societal taboos and a lack of proper healthcare systems. Research reveals that 30-40% of women in Pakistan experience postpartum depression, a staggering statistic far higher than the global average of 10-15%. Yet, instead of seeking professional help, many mothers are told to simply “pray more” or “stay strong,” leaving their mental health needs unaddressed.
The consequences of untreated maternal mental health issues go beyond the mother. They directly impact the child’s well-being, hindering the ability to bond and causing developmental delays, emotional struggles, and even poor nutrition. UNICEF warns that these issues have long-term consequences on a child’s cognitive and emotional development, which in turn affects their education and future social engagement.
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The economic cost is equally dire. The World Bank estimates that Pakistan loses a staggering $1.5 billion annually due to untreated mental health disorders, placing a huge burden on the healthcare system. Moreover, children of mothers with untreated mental health issues are two to three times more likely to experience developmental and academic difficulties, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage.
To address this, a multi-pronged approach is needed. Policymakers must integrate mental health programs into maternal healthcare and ensure proper funding. Community-based interventions, like those seen in Sindh, where Lady Health Workers (LHWs) have been trained to screen for depression and anxiety, have shown promising results. In Karachi, trials led by Aga Khan University demonstrated that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly reduced postpartum depression symptoms by 40-50%, proving that such interventions are both effective and feasible.
It’s crucial that we break the silence surrounding maternal mental health. By reducing stigma, prioritizing mental health screenings, and advocating for policy changes, we can create a culture of support. Every mother deserves care, and investing in maternal mental health is essential for the health and prosperity of Pakistan’s future generations.
