Policies and Systems Support for Infant Mental Health in the Care of Fragile Infants and Their Families

Abstract

Successful mental health support in the neonatal intensive care unit and post-hospitalization relies on policies and systems that are aligned with infant mental health principles and practice. This article explores important considerations essential to promoting effective and competent care including a focus on building trauma-informed settings, the training of nursing and ancillary staff, and the reflective support necessary to help cope with the experience and stress of caring for very ill infants and their families. The types of evidence-based infant mental health treatments and interventions are discussed and the ways in which these treatments are financed are highlighted.