N Z Med J. 2025 Aug 29;138(1621):13-33. doi: 10.26635/6965.6763.
ABSTRACT
AIM: Severe mental illness (SMI) and adverse childhood experiences are associated with chronic physical illness and complex health and welfare needs. In this 100-women study, we aimed to identify health-related characteristics of women referred to community mental health clinics (CMHCs) to inform interventions in primary and specialist health services in supporting optimal health.
METHODS: Data were collected from healthcare records of a randomised sample of 100 women using a REDCap questionnaire, designed to collate information on psychiatric diagnoses, trauma experiences, treatment and healthcare use. Statistical analyses were performed to determine differences between ethnic groups.
RESULTS: One-third had two or more psychiatric diagnoses, one-third were under mental health legislation and 81% reported suicidal ideation. Traumatic experiences were documented in 90% and 32% reported four or more adverse childhood experiences. Fourteen percent of mothers in the study had children who were not in their care. More than one-quarter (27%) were migrants or refugees.
DISCUSSION: This research reveals adversity associated with women who are in the care of CMHCs, which confer substantial household vulnerability. The intergenerational effects of poor maternal mental health influence and shape the lives of children. The 100-women study presents compelling reasons to invest in women’s health and early in their children’s life trajectory.
CONCLUSION: Clinicians need to consider women’s complex array of needs at all points of health service access. We recommend routine enquiry and more precise documentation about women’s health issues, pregnancy, parenting and adverse childhood experiences. Women with SMI are a strategic target for integrated, holistic, trauma-informed interventions with potential intergenerational impact.
PMID:40876030 | DOI:10.26635/6965.6763
