Depressed moms pass it on to kids.

• Position: YOUR LIFE - Brief article

A hormone associated with love and produced naturally in the body can help protect children from the negative effects of maternal depression, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology. It shows children born to depressed mothers are at greater risk of mental disorders, but this risk can be lessened depending on genetic factors related to oxytocin functioning.

Led by Ruth Feldman, professor at the Department of Psychology and the Gonda Brain Science Canter at Barllan University in Israel, researchers found children exposed to maternal depression throughout the first year of life have a 60% higher risk of mental disorders by age six, mainly relating to anxiety and conduct issues. They demonstrate lower social engagement with their mothers, less playfulness and creativity...