M.D. Baltimore, Maryland Depression can occur at almost any phase of life. However, it can have a special impact if it occurs in the parent of young children.
Postpartum depression is the best-known form of parental depression.
However, depression can strike men and women at other times too. Depression can make it difficult for a parent to develop a close, nurturing attachment to a young child. A depressed parent may be less vigilant about safety issues, or may, on the other hand, worry excessively about the child s safety. Depressed individuals are more likely to feel hopeless and apathetic about parenting, and thus neglect a child. An irritable, depressed parent might actually abuse a child.