It is well known that teenage mothers undergo extreme mental trauma. However, a recent research has revealed that the emotional distress came first and is the reason for the pregnancy.

The study is based on data collected over years from thousands of teen girls and teen mothers. The term ‘depression’ was not used for study purposes, as it is a term used in clinical diagnosis. The quantitative value of depression was measured by asking the study participants questions that displayed their response to depression symptoms. For example, how difficult or easy is concentrating for them and how fast they could elevate their mood while depressed?

During the study, it was found that teenage pregnancy happened in cases where poverty and depression are already present. Earlier studies had found that teenage mothers suffered from high levels of depression. However, it was never verified whether the depression came before or after pregnancy.

The new study results give much hope in preventing teen pregnancies, which is showing alarming trend in recent years. Equipped with these findings, educators and clinicians can easily identify the risk groups and take precautionary measures.

The best preventive for teen pregnancy is to encourage teens to develop good self-esteem and long-term goals. Educating teenagers about their sexuality and responsible behavior is important in this regard. Sexually active teens should be educated on the importance of use of birth control.

Major repercussion of depression among teenage mothers is the adverse effect it has on the health of the mother and the child. Depression in teenage is likely to continue into adulthood, which again has serious consequences.

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