People often refer to depression as “passed on.” Research does show a greater genetic risk of experiencing depression when either mothers or fathers experience it. However, there are other challenges children face when their parents experience depression. Due to biological and caregiving bonds, research focuses on how maternal stress and depression impacts child development.
Research on maternal stress and depression focuses on two key periods: during pregnancy and the postpartum phase. Stressful and depressive experiences during each period has their own specific effects. But overall, maternal stress and depression impacts child development in negative ways.
Maternal stress during pregnancy (aka “prenatal” stress) appears to negatively affect children’s cognitive, social, and emotional health. Higher or chronic levels of prenatal stress predicts poorer performance on cognitive tasks at 18 months old. Other studies have found similar outcomes for maternal depression, with some evidence suggesting these effects may be more pronounced in female children.
Maternal stress and depression are also linked to lower parent-rated social-emotional ability and competence in children. One study found that these social-emotional impacts still occurred up to five years after birth.
Postpartum depression also appears to have a wide range of effects on children. It predicts various cognitive challenges, as well as more maladaptive emotional coping, school achievement difficulties, and lower IQ scores. By adolescence, individuals exposed to maternal depression are at higher risk for anxiety and depressive disorders, conduct problems, ADHD, and other emotional difficulties.
The way maternal stress and depression impacts child development is lot for these kids. And for their parents. So, what can clinicians do to help? Mental health clinicians have many therapist resources available. Depression treatment has been around for a long time. Evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Behavioral Activation, and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) are all highly effective.
Because medical visits are frequent during pregnancy, medical interventions—such as psychiatric medications—can also be beneficial. Referral to a psychiatrist helps ensure that mothers utilize these medications safely and effectively.
In conclusion, maternal stress and depression impacts child development in multiple, long-term ways. Therapist resources and evidence-based treatment can provide relief for mothers and, in turn, helps prevent many of the difficulties their children might face.
