Depression And The Homeschool Mom

Hey, homeschoolers! This is going to seem like a weird way to start the year, but I am recommitted to my mission on this podcast of promoting happy, healthy homeschooling. I spoke with a family recently whose presenting problem was child misbehavior. What became obvious, however, is that the mother's depression was leading to marital and parenting problems.

Depression puts our homeschools at risk. Children of depressed mothers don't develop as well academically, emotionally, or socially.

Depression is a significant problem.

* Affects 1 in 10 adults per year

* is leading cause of disability

What causes depression?

* genetics

* post-partum/hormones

* medical conditions

* alcohol/drug use

* trauma/grief

What are the symptoms of depression?

* Feelings of sadness that won’t go away

* Loss of interest in things

* Fatigue

* Irritability/poor concentration

* Anxiety

* Eating too much/too little

* Unable to sleep/sleeping too much

* Headaches, or other pains in the body

* Feeling hopeless, worthless, suicidal

Resources for depression

Feeling Good by David Burns

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Online

National Suicide Prevention Hotline

Depression Action Steps:

* For DIY treatment, set a deadline by which you will get professional help.

If someone you care about is depressed, send them this episode. Gather supportive family members with a referral. Offer to provide homeschool and practical support while the homeschool mom is getting help.

I don't practice as a psychologist any more, but I'm praying that this episode has been helpful to you.