Study Shows Grandparents’ Support Linked to Lower Antidepressant Use in Mothers
When it comes to a mom’s mental health, grandparents play a significant role, according to a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Helsinki in Finland. The study found that mothers are less likely to purchase antidepressants if their own parents are younger than 70, employed, and do not have severe health problems.
The research team tracked 488,000 mothers of young children in Finland between 2000 and 2014, collecting demographic data such as the mother’s relationship status, the age and health of the grandparents, and their employment status. The study, published in the journal Population Studies, revealed a strong connection between access to grandparents’ help and lower use of antidepressants, particularly among mothers who were separated from their partners.
Dr. Niina Metsä-Simola, the lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of grandparents as a source of support for families with children. She stated that support from others is known to protect individuals from depression and highlighted that this support not only benefits the mothers’ well-being but also contributes to the well-being of children living with separated mothers.
Lynne McIntyre, a perinatal psychotherapist and researcher at the Autonomous University of Barcelona in Spain, who was not involved in the study, commented on the significance of community support in parenting. McIntyre acknowledged that while it may be less common for generations to live together in the United States, the need for strong social support remains essential. She emphasized that even with changing societal dynamics, access to support is crucial for mothers.
However, the study also identified instances where grandparents’ absence or inability to provide support had a negative impact on the mother’s mental health. The highest antidepressant use was observed among mothers whose parents or in-laws were older, in poor health, or living far away. In these cases, the parent faced increased stress due to the lack of support from older adults.
The research conducted in Finland, a country with generous access to healthcare and childcare, suggests that the support families receive from older generations may extend beyond these needs. The study’s findings highlight the importance of social support in preventing and managing maternal depression.
McIntyre emphasized that while grandparents can provide valuable support, families without access to such help are not at a loss. Social support can come from various sources, including aunts, uncles, friends, and community systems. Building a community of support is crucial for raising children, and it can be achieved through engaging with neighbors, joining parenting groups, or connecting with others online through social media platforms.
In conclusion, the study underscores the significant role that grandparents play in supporting mothers’ mental health. Access to support from grandparents is associated with lower antidepressant use among mothers, particularly those who are separated from their partners. However, the absence of such support does not leave families helpless, as social support can come from various sources within the community. Building a strong support network is essential for mothers’ well-being and the overall health of their children.
