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Early bonding - long-term mental health and resilience of children -…
Early bonding - long-term mental health and resilience of children
Abstract
Human babies are born very dependent on their parents
Neglect, parental inconsistency and a lack of love may lead to long-term mental health problems and reduced overall potential and happiness
Key message
Infancy is a crucial time for brain development
Support for babies and parents is important during this stage
Without a good initial bond, children are less likely to grow up to become happy, independent and
resilient adults
The science of epigenetics
By the age of three, a child's brain has reached almost 90% of its adult size
At this period of brain development, the rate of brain growing has been estimated to be 700-1000 synapse connections per second
Long-term emotional inoculation might be possible based on epigenetic science. Hugs, lullabies, smiling could inoculate babies against heartbreak, adolescent angst and even help pass future exams
Repeated interactions and communication lead to path-ways being laid down that help memories and relationships form and learning and logic to develop.
Human baby's brain is complicated and vulnerable
Studies have reported that a child's ability to form and maintain healthy relationships throughout life may be significantly impaired by having an insecure attachment to a primary caregiver
pathology in
children who suffered neglect
Reduced growth in the left hemisphere which may lead to associated increased depression risk of depression
• Increased sensitivity in the limbic system which can lead to anxiety disorders
• Reduced growth in the hippocampus that could contribute to learning and memory impairments
Use it or lose it
Positive experiences crucial for pathway development
Effects of child neglection can stretch over two generations
Parenthood has changed drastically
Experience of extended families, not so common
First-timer pregnant mothers often have only 9-months to prepare for parenthood
Bonding and caring for the baby can be very difficult and unconfident
Post-natal mood disorders are common and a potential barrier to bonding and optimal development of newborns
Breastfeeding uncommon, because of lack of knowledge among new mothers
Solutions
Classes and videos about baby care
skin-to-skin contact
early breastfeeding
cuddling and carrying the baby
face-to-face contact to promote non-verbal communication and chatting with the baby
Health care professional can share this basic and reassuring information in everyday, one-to-one conversations e.g. as they weigh babies, and also in simple leaflets and posters that promote a warm and gentle approach to parenting and to themselves.