Not only mother, father's depression also affects children's behavior, they can become more stubborn:

News Topical,Digital Desk : In today's stressful times, mental health has become a serious issue. Often the mother's mental health condition is linked to the development of children, but new research shows that father's depression also has a deep impact on the behavior of children. Especially, when children are of school-going age. At this age, the emotional state of the father affects their social and academic behavior.

What does the study say?

A study conducted in America included more than 1,400 families. This study found that children whose fathers were suffering from depression at the time of admission to nursery, showed behavioral problems by the time they reached fourth grade. This study has also revealed some statistics-

Children were 36% more likely to display stubborn or rebellious behavior.
Children were 37% more likely to be hyperactive.
Children were 25% more likely to experience a lack of focus.

These figures show that the mental condition of the father affects the emotional and social development of children.

How do children understand their father's emotions?

Children are extremely sensitive and can easily read their parents' emotions. When fathers are depressed, they often become emotionally distant or less affectionate towards the children. In such a situation, children start feeling insecure, especially when they are trying to adjust to a new environment like school.

Apart from this, the environment at home also becomes stressful due to a father suffering from depression. Children feel this stress and it affects their self-confidence and social skills. As a result, they either isolate themselves or start showing naughty and irritable behavior.

What can be done?

Awareness about father's mental health- Men often ignore their mental health. It is important that fathers also understand their emotional problems and seek counseling or therapy if needed.
Family support- Family members should be sensitive towards the father's mental health and provide him emotional support.
Conversation with children- Talk to children openly and try to make them feel emotionally safe. Make them feel that they are safe.
Role of school and teachers- Teachers should also try to understand the changes in the behaviour of children and talk to parents if needed.