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Positive Father-Child Relationship Can Moderate Negative Effects of Maternal Depression

  • May 15, 2017

Many studies have directly related a mother’s mental health, including feelings of depression, to their children’s development. And now, a new study shows that positive parenting on the father’s part can help moderate the negative effects of a mother suffering from clinical depression. According to Bar-Ilan University, a father who steps to the plate in this instance can contribute to the entire family’s welfare.

Depression is now the No. 1 cause of illness and disability in the world. In the U.S. alone more than 16 million Americans are diagnosed with depression, and since an estimated 50 percent of depressed individuals do not get treatment for it, it’s important to know as much as possible about how to help overcome this devastating statistic.

Unfortunately, the importance of strategies such as optimizing your vitamin D and gut health for the maintenance of mental and emotional stability is still frequently ignored. Addressing your nutrition is perhaps the best place to start if you're feeling depressed. Foods have an immense impact on your brain, and eating whole foods as described in my nutrition plan will best support your mental and physical health.

While you’re addressing your nutrition, don’t forget to nurture your gut, as your mental health is closely linked to your gut health. In fact, researchers have suggested depression may be a neuropsychiatric manifestation of a chronic inflammatory syndrome.

Animal-based omega-3 and vitamin D are also important anti-inflammatory strategies, as many studies show that vitamin D deficiency can predispose you to depression. Natural sunlight is the best way to get your “D,” but remember that you really need all the light frequencies to effectively treat depression.