Saturday, September 15, 2012

Mothers with Mental Health Issues

After reading a article on Mother's with mental health issues, I realized how this is a big issue among pregnant women and their children. According to the world health organization all women are at risk during their pregnancy and even after delivery. During pregnancy depressed women are less likely to eat, sleep and get proper prenatal care. Prolonged or severe mental illness contributes to the lack of attachment and bond between mother and baby. Effects of maternal mental disorders include neglect, lower IQ level, slower social emotional and cognitive development, including higher rates of mis-behavior at school settings.

I chose this subject because I work with children ages 3-5 and there have been times my students have been neglected, may not have the social/emotional, and cognitive skills needed at this age. So I'm thinking if I have more knowledge I can better assist my students and families. Because of the effects of maternal mental health on children and families this is a issue that is currently being questioned and laws are being regulated. The more information and knowledge that I have, the more I can relate, and help my families and students to find resources. Reports show that mental illness is the fourth leading cause of disability worldwide, and the tenth leading cause of death.


 The World health organization and United Nations Populations Fund, there should be no health coverage without mental health included. Also the WHO sent 10 blogger moms to Kenya, Africa, so that moms here in the US can use their voices as advocates for our counterparts across the globe.

References: http://www.who.int/mental_health/prevention/suicide/MaternalMH/en/index.html

http://www.postpartumprogress.com/mental-health-matters-to-mothers-across-the-globe-2



3 comments:

  1. The mental health of mom's is so important in the development of their children! I see so many mothers who are struggling with their own mental issues, or their emotional health. They want so much to do what is best for their children, but sometimes are just not able to see what is best or to follow through with it. I think it is so important to provide mothers with the support and resources they need to help themselves, so that they can do the best they can for their children!

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  2. The mental health of the mother is crucial to the development of the child. After what we read this week there are so many things that can affect proper development during infancy. If a mother experiences depression during pregnancy or even after,this can have a lasting impact on the child.

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  3. Wow...I did not know that mental illness was the fourth leading disability worldwide and the tenth leading cause of death, that is interesting. I have a good friend whose mother is bi-polar and its turning into schizophrenia, and I feel so sorry for her because she's wondering if it is going to happen to her. She is the same age her mother was when she was diagnosed with the disorder. I'm looking at how it effects my friend who is an adult, I can only imagine how an infant/toddler handles the situation even though they can't fully understand what is going on, I'm sure they know something is not right. Thanks for sharing!

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