3 Things to Know about Mother-Child Relationships

By Sarah Edwards, DO Healthy moms = healthy children and families. Healthy moms are essential to building children’s healthy brains and helping everyone in the family grow well and love well. Maternal depression, anxiety and stress can affect how a mother interacts and develops a relationship with her baby. Babies need a safe and stable connection with a caregiver for social, emotional and cognitive development. If this attachment is not strong, it can have lasting effects on a child’s brain, and puts children at risk for behavior and emotional problems. Family bonding is key to a healthy family. The good news is that there are effective ways to help caregivers bond with their children and promote a healthy relationship for the whole family. Finding joy in themselves and each other helps everyone feel loved and part of something important: their family. Help is available. If you have concerns about your relationship with your young child, contact the University of Maryland Medical Center’s Secure Starts Clinic at 410-328-3522 to make an appointment. Dr. Edwards is the medical director of child and adolescent psychiatry services at University of Maryland Medical Center and an assistant professor of psychiatry with the University of Maryland School of Medicine. For a consultation, call 410-328-3522.
Source: Life in a Medical Center - Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: Tags: Children's Health Health Tips Kids Source Type: blogs