How can a depressed mother raise her child not to be depressed?

Question

How can a depressed mother raise her child not to be depressed?

Answer 1

go get some professional help for urself

Answer 2

1.  you get into therapy.  show your child that you are managing your illness and that there is no shame in taking care of yourself (whether that is through talk therapy, meds, vitamins, exercise--whatever works for you to help manage it)

2.  you teach your child coping skills for when life flings poo at you.  (you know, lemons to lemonade; poo to fertilizer)

3.  You don't have to always put on a happy face for them but do try to be aware of your moods--you don't want to scare them and always be sad around them.  Never let them think that your mood is because of something they did--kids will turn all kinds of things around and make it about them.

Answer 3

yes if you hold it in and smile for the child, be pleasant around the child ---however you've got to get counseling. Get involevd with church, be around Godly people, do not stay home and do not be around negative people no matter what even if they are relatives, no drama, that is hurtful. Get your rest, have quiet moments wih the child, go for walks together, cook & eat healthy, mabey have a dog, they are great.

Answer 4

I think this is a really good, important and relevant question these days.  I think it's hard to do but possible with a lot of energy and effort - both of which unfortunately many depressed mothers don't have!  One of those double sided swords of sorts I guess.  WHen you consider that kids model what they SEE us do far more than what we SAY then the only way to help our children understand how we are sometimes depressed but not be depressed themselves - is to also see a mother who continually STRIVES TO be happy, put on a happy face, be positive in spite of depressed feelings, works constantly at maintaining, resolving, being hopeful amidst despair, doing something about the depression even if unsuccessful sometimes... being willing & open about talking about it etc...    AND the tough thing is ALL of those things are exceptionally hard to even consider much less DO when you are struggling with depression.  BUT honestly, I think that's the ONLY WAY to be depressed as a mother and not raise depressed kids yourself! or...atleast kids with ISSUES because of a depressed mother! Let's face it - we all s***w up our kids in one way or another like it or not.... SO love, energy, effort, time, communication - just like with any good relationship - is what is needed I think!