U.S. Mothers Face Prolonged Postpartum Depression in New Study
For Maci Burns, motherhood became a relentless cycle of exhaustion and despair—until a new study revealed how U.S. mothers face uniquely prolonged postpartum depression. The research tracked 31,500 mothers across the U.S., U.K., and Australia, revealing stark disparities in maternal mental health outcomes over five years.
U.S. mothers showed no improvement in postpartum depression symptoms over the study period, while their counterparts in the U.K. and Australia experienced gradual declines. This divergence correlates with policy differences: the U.S. lacks universal parental leave and childcare subsidies, creating structural barriers to recovery.
Dr. Shannon Cavanagh said:
"Policies reflect a country’s values... investing in families shapes how women adapt."
The study found U.S. mothers reported the lowest depression scores at nine months postpartum but showed no improvement by five years. Single mothers in the U.S. had the highest initial rates but demonstrated partial recovery over time. In contrast, U.K. and Australian mothers saw consistent declines in symptoms, aligning with stronger family support systems.
Dr. Priya Gopalan said:
"It’s never wrong to reach out to a primary care provider."
Maternal depression is linked to poorer child outcomes, including attachment issues and developmental delays. The research underscores the urgency of policy reforms, as treatment options like medication (zuranolone), home visits, and peer support remain underutilized due to systemic gaps.
Stephanie Coontz noted:
"The average mother who works full time now spends more hands-on time in play and learning with her children than stay-at-home mothers did in the 1950s and 1960s."
The study does not provide clinical guidance but highlights the need for further investigation into how structural inequities shape maternal mental health. No independent expert commentary was included in the source.
⚠️ LEGAL DISCLAIMER: It is for informational purposes only. It never substitutes for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor regarding any questions about your health.
