The needs of children of depressed mothers in primary care

Background. Maternal depression has a number of adverse effects on children. Although most depression is treated in primary care, assessment or support is rarely given to children of depressed mothers on a routine basis. Objective. Our aim was to examine the needs of children, aged 5-11 years, whose mothers are being treated for depression in primary care. Methods. Mothers being prescribed antidepressants by their GP (n = 30) and mothers not being prescribed antidepressants (n = 30) were interviewed, and comparisons were made between their children (n = 48 and 50). Results. The mothers who were prescribed antidepressants were more depressed than the other mothers, and their children had more dysfunctional symptoms. Conclusions. The needs of children must be considered when depressed mothers are being treated in primary care.