Robin C. Miller
Mental
Health of Mothers, Fathers, and Families in General
Good
mental stability in both mother and father play an important key factor in a
child’s proper development. Depression is one of the major mental illnesses
that have a great effect on a parent’s ability to properly care for their
child. Post-partum depression is an illness that many women suffer from after
having a baby. Depression is also one of the most undetected illnesses for a
doctor to diagnose. That’s why it is important for doctors to ask questions and
check on new mothers or fathers to get a better understanding of their
emotional wellness to care for their child. Children’s emotional, social, and
cognitive development can be affected from the loss of attachment and care from
parents if depression continues.
I chose this topic because one of my family members
suffered from post-partum depression and I have seen how the effects trickled
down to their children. It is a very serious issue that should involve help
from not only a doctor but from other members of the family.
According to, the World Health Organization Regional office for Europe, “The foundations of good mental health are laid during pregnancy infancy and childhood. Abstaining from alcohol, substance use and smoking during pregnancy promotes a healthy start in life. Protection from childhood neglect and negative life events promotes mental impact of economic crises on mental health. Good mental health allows for cognitive and emotional flexibility, which are the basis for social skills and resilience in the face of stress. This mental capital is vitally important for the healthy functioning of families, communities and society.”
Source: Impact of economic crises on mental
health. (unknown). Retrieved from http://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/134999/e94837.pdf
Colleague Robin:
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about your relatives sufferings. We really need these information to know how to assist each other especially young women who are going to be mothers as the foundations for good mental health is certainly laid during pregnancy, infancy and early childhood. The pie chart is truly sobering facts.
Thank you Sharon I agree. When mental health issues affect the mother it in turns effects the child.
DeleteMental health is very common everywhere around the world. I myself suffered from mental health issues for many years, but I also had the luxury to get the help that I needed partly because I live in America. I think alot of people have a hard time detecting mental issues because they cant physically see them like a broken leg or arm. My father had a hard time with me because he is one of those people that if he cant see that your sick he doesnt believe it. Gaining more information about mental illness to mothers during their pregnancy and after the baby is born is extremely important for the health of the mother and child. Wonderful post.
ReplyDeleteLindsey, your absolutely correct. Mothers really need to be educated about the signs of depression and not be ashamed of speaking up and getting help. In the long run it will help her and her child/children. The important key factor is all about the support system. That system can definitely help the mother in understanding if she needs help and offer her that boost of confidence.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete