Maternal Anxiety: A Systematic Literature Review on Effects and Interventions for Early Childhood Outcomes

Abstract

Background: High maternal anxiety, a public health concern, is associated with developmental delays (including slowed neurological development) as well as increased behavioural problems.

Objective: This research aims to identify the impact of maternal anxiety on child health and development, whether social support acts as a buffering factor (i.e., protective effect), and what types of interventions have demonstrated efficacy in reducing maternal anxiety.

Methodology: In accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic literature review by searching databases including ScienceDirect, PubMed, Taylor & Francis, and Springer. Following rigorous screening and selection, 73 studies were included for analysis, providing a robust foundation for examining the impact of maternal anxiety and the outcomes of various interventions.

Results: Interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), counselling, and prenatal education were shown to reduce anxiety levels among mothers. Moreover, support networks within communities and accessible mental health services were found to benefit maternal mental health, particularly in deprived areas.

Unique Contribution: This review highlights gaps in knowledge regarding maternal anxiety, including the need for studies that examine the interplay between anxiety and low social support, as well as insufficient emphasis on the efficacy of interventions, especially among socio-economically disadvantaged populations and those in rural settings.

Conclusion: An integrated approach to maternal mental health should include routine screening for maternal anxiety as part of public health initiatives, affordable access to CBT, and targeted prenatal education during pregnancy. Community-initiated networks tailored around social support practices could further enhance both maternal mental health and child development outcomes.

Key Recommendation: Policymakers and healthcare practitioners should facilitate access to mental health services and expand community-based programmes that provide vital practical and emotional support for mothers, especially those underserved or living in rural areas.