What can happen to the children of depressed mothers?

At about age 35, more medical illnesses-particularly cardiovascular problems-were found in the offspring of depressed parents than in the offspring of nondepressed parents. The offspring of parents who were depressed were twice as likely to have physical health problems as were the offspring of nondepressed parents.

Why would parents of children with ID experience more depression than parents of normally developing children?

Although caring for a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can have positive outcomes, parents may be at a greater risk of depression and anxiety, due to a number of associated stressors, such as increased caregiver demands and financial strain.

Does depression affect development?

According to the study, which followed children diagnosed with major depressive disorder between the ages of three and six, early childhood depression is associated with disruptions in brain development that continue into early adolescence.

How does depression affect social development?

Individuals with more depressive symptoms may experience fewer social interactions because: (1) they may elicit rejection from others as they induce a negative mood in their interaction partners17,18,19 and (2) they are likely to receive less reinforcement from the social environment, which contributes to a feeling of …

Is depression considered special needs?

Depression is considered a psychiatric disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It’s a significant mood disorder that’s known to interfere with daily activities, which may include your ability to work. Depression sometimes becomes so severe that you can no longer go to work.

What factors are parents?

Under “parental factors” we include both the parents’ and family’s well-being (anxiety, depression, parental stress, conjugality, family functioning) and parenting, defined in terms of affection, responsiveness, encouragement, and teaching.

How do depressed parents affect child development?

Depressed parents have been found to interact with their children differently, in ways that affect child development. For example, Smith says, “Depressed mothers have been found in some studies to use less emotion and expressivity in their language with their babies. And they make less eye contact.”

What are the effects of postpartum depression on children?

The effects of depression differ depending on the child’s age, needs, and challenges. But here’s what experts know. Bonding is particularly difficult for those with postpartum depression (PPD), which affects one in nine new mothers. They’re less likely to play with their babies, make eye contact, or speak in an engaging voice.

What happens if depression is untreated in a child?

Untreated depression raises the risk of substance abuse. Signs of depression that are specifically related to parenting include: Lack of responsiveness to a child. “Parents with depression are less likely to respond appropriately to the cues (such as crying or eye contact or gesturing) of their young children,” Smith says.

What should I do if my child has depression?

It may be helpful to inform parents with depression that their children are at risk for psychiatric disorders, and if the parent notices symptoms developing in his or her child, a psychiatric evaluation should be considered.