Introduction
Module overviewWelcome to Everybody’s Business, further module Perinatal and Infant Mental Health.
In the context of this module we define the perinatal period as the period of pregnancy, childbirth and the first year after the birth. This definition of “perinatal” is commonly used in the mental health field, but differs from the definition used in the midwifery and obstetrics, where it is generally meant to refer to pregnancy, childbirth and the first six postnatal weeks.
Earlier courses have explored the terminology around mental health, promoting it as a positive, all encompassing term. You will already have considered the differences between Mental Health problems, affecting a significant proportion of people; Mental Disorders, which are diagnosable conditions normally needing treatment; and Mental Illness, which is pervasive and enduring, requiring longer term treatment and management. Additionally you will encounter the term “mental distress”, which includes problems and disorders and may be used to describe mental health problems in parents and infants.
Infant mental health refers to the emotional and cognitive development of infants from birth. This development takes place within the infant’s environment, which consists primarily of their relationship with their primary caregiver (generally the mother). The nature of this relationship has very significant long term implications for the mental health of the baby, and the child and adult they become. Early intervention to promote a positive attachment between mother/primary caregiver and baby can help prevent later mental health problems and benefit the baby’s emotional and cognitive development.
The Mental Health Task Force of Zero to Three states
“Infant mental health is the developing capacity of the child from birth to three to: experience, regulate, and express emotions; form close interpersonal relationships; and explore the environment and learn – all in the context of family, community and mental health expectations for young children. Infant mental health is synonymous with healthy social and emotional development.”
There are four major topics covered in this module, each contained within one session.
