Prevalence and risk factors of maternal depression during the first three years of childrearing

This longitudinal study examined maternal depression status from the birth of a child to 36 months of age using data from the NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development. Maternal Depression was assessed by use of the Center of Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and defined as a score of 16 or greater. Early onset depression was defined as depression within six months after birth while late onset depression was defined as depression onset when the child 24 months or older. Chronic depression was defined as depression that started within the first six months after birth and lasted to 24 months or older. Results: The prevalence of early onset, late onset and chronic maternal depression were 32.2%, 7.4% and 13.4% respectively. Prevalence of maternal depression was highest at 1 month and then decreased at 6 months when it remained fairly stable until 36 months. Mothers 18-24 years of age, black race, unemployed, with lower social support, single, or with poor general health had a higher prevalence of both early and chronic depression compared to other groups. Maternal age, poverty status, education, and social support were significantly associated with maternal depression in multivariate regression models. Conclusion: This study found that the prevalence of maternal depression was 32.2% during the first six months after birth and 13.4% continued to 24 months and beyond. Younger age, black race, unemployment, single-status, lack of social support, and poor general health were all risk factors for increased prevalence of maternal depression.