By Aggrey Karani
Several studies suggest that adolescent mothers experience significantly higher rates of depression, both prenatally and postpartum, than adult mothers and their nonpregnant peers.
As per the United Nations with also, Early childbearing is associated with an elevated risk of substance abuse. The estimated drug usage among pregnant adolescents ranges from 11 to 15%.
All of these have risk factors, which include the having of parents with low education levels, a history of child abuse, limited social networks, and living in chaotic and unstable home environments in low-income communities.
In addition to these factors, teenage mothers are more likely to experience significant levels of stress that can increase the risk for mental health disorders.
However, some factors can reduce the likelihood that a teenage mom will have psychiatric issues. If a teen mom has a supportive relationship with her mother and the baby’s father, her risks are reduced.
The effects a child of a teenage mother affect them directly from a greater risk for lower birth weight and infant mortality to the less prepared to enter kindergarten and more rely for heavily on publicly funded health care who are more likely to be incarcerated at some time during adolescence are more likely to drop out of high school are more likely to be unemployed as they are young adult, these effects can create a perpetual cycle for teenage mothers, their children, and their children’s children.
Seeking support from others can improve a teen mom’s mental health. Thus, the teens need support from their parents, grandparents, friends, adult role models, physicians, and other healthcare providers.
Many community centers also have services for teen parents, including daycare during school hours.
It is also essential that teen moms seek prenatal care as early as recommended, usually in the first trimester. This support for their and their baby’s health promotes better outcomes during pregnancy and afterward.
Teenage moms are more likely to have positive mental health and financial outcomes after high school, therefore, many high schools should offer programs that will arrange for teen moms to finish their education.
While finishing school can be an extra stressor, it is thus essential for the future of a teen mom and her baby.
The warning signs of mental illness in teens vary depending on the condition. Feeling restless, wound up, or on edge, and becoming fatigued easily. Struggling with concentration and experiencing irritability. Feeling muscle tension. Having difficulty keeping worry levels under control.
Aggrey Karani is a youth advocate.
