Mothers who experience high levels of stress, anxiety, or depression during pregnancy may put their children at a greater risk of mental health and behavior problems in childhood and adolescence the American Psychological Association revealed this week.
The research, conducted by Irene Tung, PhD, of California State University, Dominguez Hills, suggests that psychological distress during pregnancy has a lasting impact on children’s likelihood of displaying aggressive, impulsive, and disinhibited behaviors. These findings highlight the importance of accessible mental health support for expectant mothers to prevent childhood behavior issues.
The study analyzed data from over 45,000 participants across 55 studies. All of the studies assessed the psychological distress levels of pregnant women, including stress, depression, and anxiety, and later evaluated their children’s externalizing behaviors, such as aggression or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Overall, the researchers found that mothers who reported higher levels of anxiety, depression, or stress during pregnancy were more likely to have children who displayed ADHD symptoms or had difficulties with aggressive and hostile behavior, as reported by parents or teachers.
The findings, published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, support previous research that has explored the connection between maternal mental health during pregnancy and externalizing behaviors in children. However, unlike previous studies, this research specifically focused on the effects of distress during pregnancy, separate from parental psychological distress after birth.
The study findings held true regardless of the child’s gender and across different age groups, including early childhood (ages 2-5), middle childhood (6-12), and adolescence (13-18). The impact was strongest during early childhood.
The researchers suggest that exposure to stress hormones in the womb can influence the development of the child’s brain, explaining the link between prenatal distress and later behavior problems.
Moving forward, it is important for future research to include more diverse samples in order to better understand how cultural and socioeconomic factors contribute to prenatal stress. This will enable the development of effective interventions and equitable public health policies.
In addition, Tung and her colleagues are currently conducting two studies aimed at understanding the resources and support that aid in resilience and recovery from prenatal stress, particularly among families facing health disparities. The goal is to inform inclusive preventive interventions during pregnancy and promote early mental health resilience and well-being for both parents and their children.
5 Ways To Reduce Stress During Pregnancy:
1. Exercise Regularly – Regular exercise can help to reduce stress during pregnancy. Exercise helps to release endorphins, which are hormones that make you feel happier and more relaxed. It also helps to increase blood flow, which can provide relief from aches and pains. Additionally, exercising regularly can help to improve your overall mood and give you an energy boost.
2. Get Plenty of Rest – Getting enough rest is essential for reducing stress during pregnancy. When you’re pregnant, your body needs extra time to recover from the physical and emotional demands of the day. Make sure to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night and take naps when needed throughout the day. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family or friends if you need it!
3. Eat a Healthy Diet – Eating a healthy diet is also important for reducing stress during pregnancy. Eating nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will provide your body with the energy it needs while helping to keep your blood sugar levels stable. Additionally, avoiding processed foods and sugary snacks will help to reduce cravings that can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety.
4. Connect with Others – Connecting with others is also important for reducing stress during pregnancy. Talking with friends or family members about how you’re feeling can be a great way to relieve stress and get support from those who care about you most. Additionally, attending prenatal classes or joining online forums for expectant moms can be great ways to connect with other women who are going through similar experiences as you are!
5. Practice Relaxation Techniques – Finally, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or guided meditation can help reduce stress during pregnancy. Taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath or visualize calming landscapes can help to relax both your mind and body while providing much-needed relief from anxiety and worry
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