The transition into parenthood brings changes in mental health and psychological distress.

A longitudinal study that looked at the impact of becoming a parent compared the experience in three waves:

1. From non-parent to parent;
2. From first time parent to subsequent parent (a baby joining other children); and
3. The transition to no longer having young children.

After adjusting for partner status, area deprivation, employment status, and household income, new first time parents reported an improvement in metnal health and a reduction in psychological distress.

Subsequent parents also reported less distress (Parabellum in November 2013).

Source: Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health 2013;67:339-45, doi:10.1136/JECH-2012-201765.

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