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Authors

Susan May

Publication Date

5-1-2022

Keywords

women, mental health, health

Volume

2022

Abstract

Adolescent mothers are twice as likely to suffer from postpartum depression than adult mothers. In addition. teen moms are more likely to experience social stigma associated with teenage pregnancy and motherhood. Adolescent mothers also abuse substances at a higher rate than adult mothers, and teen dads are less likely to be involved in parenting responsibilities than adult fathers. These factors associated with teenage mothers cause an increased likelihood of teen moms developing postpartum depression. When mothers suffer from postpartum depression, their children are more at risk for child development problems. fathers are more likely to suffer from depression, and parents are less likely to run an efficient household. Additionally, severe postpartum depression or psychosis greatly increases maternal suicide and infanticide. Successful treatments for postpartum depression include breastfeeding and interpersonal psychotherapy.

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