Parental Depression Screening in Pediatric Health Care Settings: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Mental Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Parental depression impacts a significant number of US families, affecting up to 1 in 5.
• Pediatric professionals are well-positioned to identify parental depression.
• Existing research predominantly focuses on postpartum screening, leaving a gap in understanding non-postpartum screening.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of literature on parental depression screening outside the postpartum period (child >12 months).
• To identify existing knowledge and research gaps in this area.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major databases (PubMed, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Web of Science, APA Psych Info).
• English language studies focusing on maternal and/or paternal depression screening in pediatric settings, with children older than 12 months, were included.
• Data extracted included study characteristics, screening tools, and key findings.

Main Results:

• Forty-one studies were included in the review.
• A high proportion of positive parental depression screens were consistently observed.
• Few structured screening programs exist for non-postpartum parental depression, particularly for fathers, and referral/follow-up remains a significant challenge.

Conclusions:

• Screening for parental depressive symptoms in pediatric settings outside the postpartum period can identify families needing support.
• Further research is essential to develop and validate best practices for referral and follow-up of parents who screen positive for depression.