Single Mothers at Higher Risk for Depression

Main Category: Women's Health / Gynecology
Article Date: 24 Mar 2005 - 23:00 PDT

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A recent study showed that low-income single mothers have a very high prevalence of depressive symptoms. This research, led by Ann Peden, ARNP, BC, DSN at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing was focused on 205 volunteer women with children between the ages of 2 and 6 who were at high risk for depression.

Participants' survey results showed that more than 75% scored in the mild to high range of depressive symptoms based on well-know measurement scales. Results support previous research in this area that low- income single mothers reported a high level of depressive symptoms including negative thinking and chronic stressors. The resulting depression could interfere with their ability to parent, seek education and employment as well as significantly affect the entire families' quality of life.

This study, published in a recent issue of Journal of Nursing Scholarship suggests that with nursing intervention for depressive symptoms - particularly negative thinking - the rate at which these at-risk women develop depression could be decreased. Depression is the number one mental illness in the United States costing an estimated $44 billion with employers reporting depression as the most costly illness. Women are twice as likely as men to suffer from depression.

This study is published in the Journal of Nursing Scholarship. Media wishing to receive a PDF of the article please contact medicalnews@bos.blackwellpublishing.net.

About the Author

Ann R. Peden is currently Professor of Nursing at the University of Kentucky and has served at the university since 1986. Additionally, she practices as an Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse at the Behavioral Medicine Network in Lexington, KY. Dr. Peden's research focuses on the prevention of depressive illness in women. Co-investigators of this study include Dr. Lynne Hall and Dr. Mary Kay Rayens.

About the Journal of Nursing Scholarship

Blackwell Publishing publishes the Journal of Nursing Scholarship in partnership with the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International. This widely read and respected journal features peer-reviewed, thought-provoking articles representing research by some of the world's leading nurse researchers. Reaching health professionals, faculty and students in 115 countries , the Journal of Nursing Scholarship is focused on health of people throughout the world. It is the official journal of Sigma Theta Tau International and it reflects the society's dedication to providing the tools necessary to improve nursing care around the world.

About Blackwell Publishing

Blackwell Publishing is the world's leading society publisher, partnering with more than 600 academic and professional societies. Blackwell publishes over 750 journals and 600 text and reference books annually, across a wide range of academic, medical, and professional subjects.

Reference URL
http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/jns

SOURCE:
http://www.alphagalileo.org

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