Citation

Mesidor M, Maru M. Women Ther. 2015; 38(1-2): 89-113.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/02703149.2014.978222

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the relationship between mothers with major depression and their adult daughters. Five themes emerged from individual interviews with twelve mother-daughter dyads including, enduring emotional bond, evolving as a mother, ongoing problems in connecting, advocacy and self-help, and mutual support.

FINDINGS indicated that despite challenges resulting from the mother's symptoms of depression, the relationship undoubtedly played a critical role in the mother's recovery. Recommendations are made for therapists on addressing issues that result from a mother's major depression, improving communication in the mother-adult daughter relationship, and utilizing family psychoeducation, and self-help and advocacy services.

Keywords

major depression; mother; serious mental illness; parenting; recovery