Full Name of the Project: Parental Depression and Its Impact on Parental and Child Nutrition in Nepal: A Mixed-Methods Neuroscience-Integrated Study
Short Description / Project Introduction: Parental depression is a growing public health concern with significant impacts on maternal and child well-being, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nepal where resources for both mental health and nutrition are limited. This study explores how maternal and paternal depression affect dietary diversity, nutritional outcomes, and caregiving practices among households with children under five. Using a neuroscience-informed, mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative assessments (PHQ-9, dietary recall, anthropometry) with qualitative interviews to uncover behavioral mechanisms linking depression and nutrition. Findings aim to inform early interventions, integrate mental health screening into maternal-child health services, and strengthen research capacity in Nepal.
Project Objectives
- General Objective: To examine the neurological, psychosocial, and behavioral pathways through which parental depression affects dietary patterns and nutritional outcomes in Nepal.
- Specific Objectives:
- Assess the association between parental depression and dietary practices among parents and children under five.
- Determine links between parental depression and child nutritional outcomes such as stunting, wasting, and underweight.
- Evaluate the correlation between maternal depression and maternal nutritional status (underweight/overweight).
- Investigate the impact of parental depression on family food habits, parenting practices, household food distribution, and caregiving behaviors.
Project Duration
August 24, 2025 – April 30, 2026
Project Sites
- Sindhuli District (Bagmati Province)
- Okhaldhunga District (Koshi Province)
Project Funding Agency: Funded by IBRO and Wellcome Trust