Depression in Families: Supporting Children Through a Parent’s Struggles

When a parent lives with depression, the impact extends beyond the individual—it ripples into the family, especially children. In this moving episode of Giving Voice to Depression, Kathleen shares her deeply personal story of parenting while struggling with depression. She reflects on how her children were affected, the guilt she carried, and the steps she took to support them through her mental health journey.

Together with host Terry, this episode explores the importance of honest communication, practical strategies for supporting children, and the reminder that love and presence—even when imperfect—make a profound difference.

Link to the Little Hearts Project website: https://www.thelittleheartproject.org/

Primary Topics Covered:

• How parental depression affects children emotionally and psychologically
• The guilt parents carry when they struggle with mental health
• Why open conversations about depression matter for kids
• Strategies to support children while managing your own mental health
• Breaking cycles of silence and stigma within families
• Reassurance that imperfect parenting can still provide love and stability

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and episode context
 01:12 – Kathleen shares her experience with depression as a parent
 03:05 – The guilt of parenting while struggling with mental health
 05:30 – How children are emotionally impacted by a parent’s depression
 08:17 – The importance of honesty and openness with kids
 11:22 – Practical ways to support children while healing yourself
 14:00 – Breaking the cycle of silence and stigma in families
 16:19 – Reframing parental guilt with compassion
 18:42 – Reminders for parents: love and presence matter most
 20:06 – Closing reflections and resources

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