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PPD

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·September 30, 2025·7 min read

Psilocybin Worsens Postpartum Depression Symptoms

New research shows psilocybin, often studied as a treatment for mental health disorders, may worsen symptoms of postpartum depression in mice. Mothers given the drug showed more anxiety, avoidance of their pups, and lasting depressive-like behaviors.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·September 25, 2025·6 min read

Postpartum Depression and Psychosis Risks Surge After Childbirth

A large Swedish study of 1.8 million pregnancies found that mental ill health around pregnancy has risen in recent years, with risks spiking after childbirth. While depression and psychosis rates drop during pregnancy, postpartum depression is 20% more likely within weeks 5–15, and psychosis risk is up to seven times higher in the first 20 weeks.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 12, 2025·5 min read

Maternal Depression Linked to Weaker Bonds

A comprehensive global review confirms that maternal depression undermines parenting, impairing mother-infant bonding and reducing sensitivity to a child’s needs. Researchers analyzed nearly a decade of observational studies, finding consistent links between depressive symptoms and lower involvement, commitment, and emotional connection.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 16, 2025·4 min read

Neglecting Dads’ Mental Health May Harm Kids’ Development

Experts urge healthcare providers to screen new fathers for mental distress, citing strong evidence that paternal mental health affects child development. Depression, anxiety, and stress in new dads are linked to poorer outcomes in children's emotional, cognitive, and social growth.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·May 15, 2025·5 min read

Early Bonding Buffers Kids from Lasting Effects of Maternal Depression

A new study highlights the lasting impact of postpartum maternal depression and mother-to-infant bonding on children’s emotional and behavioral outcomes. Researchers found that early bonding can partially offset the negative effects of maternal depression, reducing future psychosocial difficulties.

This shows a pregnant woman and a brain.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·January 30, 2025·6 min read

Blood Test May Predict Postpartum Depression Through Hormone Levels

Women who develop postpartum depression (PPD) may have distinct neuroactive steroid levels during the third trimester of pregnancy. A study found that those with PPD had lower levels of pregnanolone, which reduces stress, and higher levels of isoallopregnanolone, which increases stress.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·October 2, 2024·7 min read

New Therapy Improves Depression in Fathers

A new study shows that a group parenting intervention significantly reduces male postpartum depression (PPD) in Pakistani fathers, with over 70% of participants experiencing full remission of symptoms. The program, "Learning Through Play Plus Dads," also improved child development and strengthened relationships within families.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·September 22, 2024·4 min read

Brain Activity May Help Predict Risk of Postpartum Depression

New research suggests that increased activity in the brain's amygdala during pregnancy may indicate a higher risk of postpartum depression. A study comparing pregnant and non-pregnant women found that those with higher amygdala activity struggled more with emotional regulation and reported more depression symptoms.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·May 26, 2024·7 min read

Gut Bacteria Gas Linked to Pregnancy Hormone, Mood Regulation, and PPD

Researchers discovered that gut bacteria produce a hormone involved in pregnancy and postpartum depression treatment by modifying steroids in bile. This research highlights the microbiome's role as an endocrine organ influencing human health.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·April 10, 2024·7 min read

Innovative Supplement Prevents Postpartum Blues

A new study introduces a natural supplement that significantly reduces postpartum blues and depression symptoms. The four-year study demonstrated that the supplement, taken shortly after childbirth, prevents the onset of postpartum blues in 66% of participants and protects against clinical postpartum depression six months later.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·October 20, 2023·2 min read

Dad’s Postpartum Depression: Hidden Risk for Childhood Adversities

Research reveals that a father's depression during a child's first year can lead to increased odds of the child experiencing multiple adverse events by age 5. Adverse childhood experiences have lasting impacts, including health and academic challenges.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·October 19, 2023·5 min read

Post Partum Depression May Have Genetic Roots

Researchers explore the genetic underpinnings of postpartum depression (PPD). Their results reveal that 14% of PPD variability is due to common genetic factors. The study also found that PPD's genetic architecture significantly aligns with other psychiatric and hormonal conditions. GABAergic neurons, specifically in the thalamus and hypothalamus, were identified as key areas for future PPD research.