I chose Mental Health of mothers, fathers and families in general. The topic is meaningful to me, because as an early childhood professional I never really know what type of issues that a child and his or her family may be dealing with. It is very important to me that I am made aware of changes or issues that a child may be going through, so that if I observe different behavior, I can hopefully help the child and family. I also know of someone very close to me that was diagnosed with depression at the age of 15 and it was very hard for the family, because this was a first for the family. No other family member had ever had problems or issues. However, without alot of communication and help from medical professionals, this person is on track and is doing well.
I found information at http://www.menshealthaustralia.net/. A study was conducted of nearly 87,000 families in Britain and it was found that 21% of fathers and 39% of mothers experienced a period of depression by the time their child was 12 years old. Depression is most common amomg parents of babies with 13% of mothers and 3% of fathers becoming depressed by the time their child reached its first birthday. Overall suicide rates 2005 were 16.4 per 100,000 males,4.3 per 100,000 females 1657 males committed suicide in 2005. Divorced men are three times likely to committ suicide then any other. Suicide rates are as follows highest for ages 30-34 and then ages 40-49. Men ages 30-34 had the highest individual suicide rate in 2005 at 27.5 suicide per 100,000 people. Married have the lowest suicide rate. Divorced and never married men have higher rates than married men.
I have learned that it is very important to be aware of the signs of depression and or suicide. It is very important to communicate with parents and care givers. It was also be very helpful for parents with teenagers to have resources available, just in case they have a teen in trouble or know of a teen in trouble.
Lori,
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you about when you stated that we never really know what type of issues that a child and his or her family may be dealing with. I'm a prime example of that. I was living with this guy and he had a split personality and my child was scared for his life and mines. I noticed my child just wasn't himself and I knew then it was time for me to move on. My child is alway first in my life.
Depression is real and the statistics in Britian that you found are alarming especially with the fathers. A lot of men would never admit that they are depressed and they don't realize the affects that it has on a child. I agree with you that it is very important that we notice these signs so that we can better understand how to help children who may be in situations where a depressed parent exist. Thanks for reminding me of the importance of my position.
ReplyDeleteThanks....Your advice was very useful. It makes me have second thoughts on Mental Health. My friend has his own building where 4 mental men stay and they love it when he take them to Jackson State games to here the band. You do have a point about looking out for signs to help the children that may be depressed.
ReplyDeleteI love the comparsion of Australia and the U.S.