This report examines the economic impact of maternal depression during the perinatal period (pregnancy and the first year after childbirth) in Malaysia. Perinatal depression affects 1 in 8 expectant and new mothers in the country, leading to significant physical, social, and psychological consequences for both mothers and their children. Addressing maternal mental health is an urgent public concern.
Key findings in this report are:
- The excess cost (the difference between the costs of mothers with perinatal depression and those without) of untreated perinatal depression for the 2020 birth cohort, projected from conception to 5 years postpartum is RM 1.64 billion.
- The average cost per mother-child dyad is RM 27,406.
- Two-thirds of the total costs are related to adverse impact on mother.
Despite perinatal depression being both preventable and treatable, qualitative reports indicate that both mothers and healthcare providers in Malaysia view perinatal mental health care as insufficient and stigmatized. This report outlines a stepped-care approach that focuses on screening and preventive interventions that can reduce the risk of perinatal depression significantly.
The earliest intervention conceivable for safeguarding the next generation’s mental health lies in fostering and sustaining the psychological equilibrium of their parents during the perinatal phase.
We have a tremendous opportunity to make a significant positive contribution to the mental health of the coming generations by offering them a stable start to life and creating strong and healthy bonds between mother and child.