Mothers in Germany: Mental health is at great risk!

Mothers in Germany: Mental health is at great risk!

Mothers' mental health has a direct impact on their children's development and is influenced by various factors. Researchers at the Hannover Medical School (MHH) are investigating these complex relationships and have found that around one in three women in Germany is affected by a mental disorder, including many mothers. The central question of the study was to identify the causes of psychological complaints in mothers. It was found that the feeling of insecurity in the parental role is the greatest influencing factor on mothers' mental health.

The study results show that mothers who feel insecure in their parenting role have significantly higher levels of mental stress. Satisfaction in the areas of family life, relationships and work-life balance is directly related to mental health. Higher satisfaction in these areas of life correlates with better mental health. Anxiety disorders and mood disorders are among the most common mental illnesses in mothers, with a prevalence of approximately 21% and 12%, respectively.

Relationships between maternal and child health

Parents' mental health has a profound impact on their children's growth and development. Numerous studies show that maternal psychological problems can lead to increased risks of illness for children into adulthood. The most common illnesses in mothers include depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Statistics indicate that about 10% of pregnant women and 13% of new mothers suffer from mood disorders. These psychological challenges can negatively impact parent-child interactions and affect children's likelihood of survival and development. Children of parents with psychological distress are more susceptible to various health problems, including developmental delays and malnutrition. Especially in developing countries, mothers and children are at risk of higher morbidity and mortality caused by poverty, stress and inadequate medical care.

Mental illnesses during and after pregnancy, particularly postpartum depression (PPD), affect a significant proportion of women and manifest themselves through various symptoms such as low mood, reduced drive and sleep disorders. These conditions are treatable, and early interventions can improve maternal health and quality of life. Fortunately, previous studies show that inpatient mother-child measures can often lead to short- and medium-term improvements in health.

Need for support and intervention

An important aspect of the research is the need for appropriate support options for mothers. For many mothers with limited mental functioning, there are options for help that can be certified by family doctors and applied for through statutory health insurance companies. The Family Health Research Network, which is made up of an interdisciplinary team from the MHH and inpatient mother/father-child facilities, plays a crucial role in the development of concepts to improve maternal health and family life.

It is also important to combat the stigmatization of mental illnesses in order to make it easier for affected mothers to seek help. Creating a supportive environment can help mothers and their children grow up and develop healthier. Scientists are committed to increasing education and better resources to address these challenges and thus improve the quality of life for families.

Overall, the comprehensive analysis, published in the specialist magazine BMC Women's Health, shows that maternal mental health is a central issue that has not only individual but also societal relevance. The results, published in August 2025, invite us to intensify the dialogue about the challenges and needs of mothers in Germany and to develop suitable measures to provide relief and support. Further information can be found at MHH, Univadis and Freising district.