Project coordination: Medical University Innsbruck (Jean Paul); Lead AIHTA: Ingrid Zechmeister-Koss
Project partners: AIHTA, Universität Innsbruck, LBI für Rehabilitation Research
Author: Ingrid Zechmeister-Koss
Duration: Q2 2022 to Q1 2027
Language: English and German
Mental health disorders are among the most common complications associated with pregnancy and childbirth. During the perinatal period (including the first year after birth), they affect approximately one in five mothers and more than one in ten fathers. Parental mental health disorders around the time of childbirth can have a significant impact on child development. In addition to their effects on the health and quality of life of those affected, peripartum mental health disorders also result in substantial societal and economic costs. In Austria, existing prevention and support services vary considerably between regions.
As part of this project, international evidence and the Austrian situation regarding peripartum psychiatric care models were analysed. In collaboration with regional stakeholders, specific approaches to improving services in Tyrol were developed, implemented, and evaluated.
In 2026, the AIHTA will continue to provide consultancy services on a limited scale.