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#blackpain, #blackpainitjustlookslikewenothurting, #depressionafricanamericans, #facingtheblackshadow, #symptomsacculturation

Another Factor Affecting School Performance of Black Children…Depression Makes Parents Less Affectionate To Kids

Kids’ Grades Can Suffer When Mom Or Dad Is Depressed

Mary McLain for NPR

When parents suffer depression, there can be a ripple effect on children. Kids may become anxious, even sad. There may be behavior problems. Health may suffer.

There are a number of reasons why depressed parents can have a difficult time nurturing their children…“Just think about the symptoms of depression — the feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, loss of energy, interest in things that usually give you pleasure,” she says. “And think about having those symptoms and trying to take care of children.”

And, children themselves say, mom “just loves me… and [doesn’t] listens to me.”

But women who recover from depression got interested in their children again.

This is especially important for Black parents and their children. too. Because of acculturation and oppression, depression is endemic and a silent demon in the Black community. Self-education can help, read: Black Pain: It Just Looks Like We’re Not Hurting and Facing the Black Shadow.