More than half of twin parents experience depression, a surge in postpartum severe depression

More than half of the mothers raising twins have been found to experience depressive symptoms.

A survey conducted by the Population and Health Welfare Association confirmed that mental health issues faced by parents during the process of raising twins are at a serious level.

On the 23rd, the Population and Health Welfare Association announced the results of a depressive self-assessment conducted on 459 parents who are either pregnant with or raising twins, from the 23rd of last month to the 11th of this month.

According to the survey results, 55.1% of the mothers raising twins exhibited depressive symptoms. Among them, mild depressive symptoms were the most common at 27.3%, followed by moderate depression at 11.5%, severe depression at 9.7%, and major depression at 6.6%.

55.1% showed depressive symptoms.

At the stage of twin pregnancy, 20.4% of expectant mothers experienced depression, among which 9.3% were found to have mild depression and 8.3% severe depression.

Notably, the rate of postpartum depression sharply increased, with 39.5% of mothers receiving a diagnosis of depression within 12 weeks after childbirth.

It is noteworthy that the rate of severe depression immediately after childbirth was 30.2%, which is about three times higher than during the pregnancy period.

Stress from raising multiples is not exempt for dads; the need for professional support arises.

Fathers of twins are also not free from depression.

The survey results showed that 37.7% of fathers raising twins exhibited depressive symptoms, with mild depressive symptoms at 26.0%, moderate depression at 9.1%, and severe depression at 2.6%.

It is known that mothers of multiples face greater physical and mental stress compared to mothers of singletons because the normal intrauterine growth of the fetus is challenging, increasing the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth, along with the likelihood of premature births.

Experts analyze that this results in significantly higher stress levels.

Lee Sam-sik, President of the Population and Health Welfare Association, stated, "This survey highlights the urgent need for psychological and emotional support for parents throughout the process of twin pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting," and added, "The association will continue to collaborate with twin family happiness network organizations to alleviate the parenting burden of twin parents."

The findings from this survey have once again reminded us of the importance of social support and mental health management for families with multiples.

The mental health issues of twin parents extend beyond individual problems, potentially impacting the overall well-being of the family and the growth environment of the children, making the establishment of a systematic support system urgently needed.

Image source: Reference photos for understanding the article / gettyimagesbank