A model for the provision of integrated perinatal and infant mental health services in regional settings

Abstract

Objective:

This paper aims to describe current approaches in Victoria to the development of perinatal and infant mental health services in regional areas.

Method:

The paper outlines the significance of perinatal mental disorder for maternal wellbeing and impact on infant development, and describes the model of care at the Agnes Unit.

Results:

The Agnes Unit has been established as a residential therapeutic unit offering short-term treatment that focusses on promoting parental mental health, parenting sensitivity and the parent-infant relationship.

Conclusions:

A coordinated and integrated approach with focus on early intervention is needed to deliver perinatal and infant mental health services. Services need to focus on the infant and parent-infant relationship in addition to parental mental health.

Keywords

perinatal mental health infant mental health parent-infant unit service delivery Solihull Approach

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