Not too many research articles make me say “Whoa!”
This one is a very interesting exception and it’s not even directly linked to Postpartum Mood Disorders.
Via fMRI, researchers examined the brain patterns of formerly depressed v. non-depressed women as they listened to their mothers speak. These recorded statements varied from praise to criticism.
After listening to the statements, both groups had similar verbal reactions.
But their brain patterns revealed a much different story.
As the formerly depressed women listened to the criticisms, something interesting happened.
Researchers aren’t sure if this reaction is a “scar” from depression or if the brain reacted this way prior to depression.
So if Mom’s criticism is a little harder to take in the midst of a Postpartum Mood Disorder, it’s really not your fault. (And no, she’s really not out to get you)
Pingback: A Mother’s support is key during mental illness | My Postpartum Voice