Association of maternal mental health on development and growth of children under two years old from Wardha: Protocol for a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background A mother’s mental health is crucial in shaping the early years of her child’s development and growth. Many mental health conditions can have an impact on pregnant and postpartum mothers. Postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis are a few mental health conditions that can affect the mother and child if not catered to at the right time. A mother’s mental health can lead to childhood delays in milestones, language development and growth. This study intends to examine the way various aspects of mothers’ mental health, like depression and stress, can influence the early developmental trajectories and physical growth of young children. Protocol A cross-sectional study with 196 participants will be conducted. Eligibility criteria includes mothers with children under two years old. Data will be collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Maternal mental health will be assessed using validated measures, including standardised questionnaires. Established developmental assessments and anthropometric measurements will evaluate child development and growth. Conclusions The findings of the study shall help in planning appropriate interventions to reduce the association of maternal mental with childhood delay in development and growth.