Children who lose a parent twice as likely to develop mental health disorders
A new, large-scale Curtin University study has found children who experience parental loss are twice as likely to develop a mental health disorder as those living with both parents.
A new Curtin University study reveals that children who lose a parent are twice as likely to develop a mental health disorder compared to those raised by both parents. Using data from Australian families, researchers found that 21.4% of children experiencing parental loss had diagnosable mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, while only 10.8% of children without parental loss faced similar issues.
Defined as the death of a parent, parental separation, or a parent in custody, the study emphasized the scale of the problem and the urgent need for better support systems. Professor Lauren Breen, the lead author, highlighted how prevalent parental loss is in Australian society and how it significantly impacts children's mental health, with children losing a parent to death facing the highest risk at 28.8%.
Younger children were particularly affected, underscoring the severe consequences of parental bereavement during childhood. The study, published in the Australian Journal of Psychology, called for improved identification and support for grieving children and families, including accessible mental health services and tailored interventions during bereavement.
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