Childbirth represents a transformative life event, reshaping family structures and social roles. This transition demands considerable adaptability as parents assume new caregiving responsibilities and navigate evolving relationship dynamics. During the perinatal period, the stress of these adjustments may precipitate maternal perinatal mental health disorders (PMMDs), such as depression and anxiety, which have profound implications for mothers, infants, and families. In fact, maternal suicide linked to PMMDs is a leading cause of maternal mortality, surpassing traditional complications like postpartum hemorrhage and gestational hypertension.

The consequences of PMMDs extend far beyond immediate maternal health, with far-reaching effects on children and family systems. Research underscores the critical impact of maternal mental health during pregnancy on fetal development, child attachment, and long-term cognitive and emotional outcomes. Similarly, family function—encompassing the health, communication, support, and adaptability of the family unit—emerges as a pivotal factor in influencing perinatal mental health outcomes. A well-functioning family system can act as a protective buffer, promoting resilience and mitigating psychological distress.

This proposal focuses on advancing the field of perinatal psychiatry by examining the complex interplay between maternal and paternal mental health, family functioning, and overall family wellbeing during the perinatal period. Understanding these interconnected dynamics is essential for developing targeted interventions and policies to support families and improve outcomes for parents and children alike.

We invite submissions related to the following topics, including but not limited to:

- The impact of family function on maternal and paternal perinatal mental health.

- Reciprocal effects of maternal and paternal mental health disorders on each other.

- Development and evaluation of interventions to strengthen family function and support mental health during the perinatal period.

- Comparative studies examining maternal versus paternal perinatal mental health disorders and their implications.

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Frontiers in Psychiatry

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Impact