Can people with depression get married and have children?

Apr 17, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhu Gang
Introduction
Whether a person with depression can get married and have children depends on the control of the disease. Individuals with mild depression, whose symptoms are not severe in daily life or whose condition has been well managed, may marry and have children, although depression does carry a genetic risk. However, it is not advisable to marry or have children during an active depressive episode or when the condition is highly unstable. If depression develops after marriage and long-term medication is required for management, having children is not recommended.

Generally, whether a person with depression can get married and have children depends on how well their condition is managed. It is recommended to consult a doctor in detail and undergo a comprehensive medical examination at a hospital before marriage and childbirth. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Can get married and have children

If the depression is mild, symptoms are not severe, or the condition has been effectively controlled under a doctor's guidance through active treatment, it is generally possible to get married and have children. However, depression has certain genetic factors; if a parent has depression, the likelihood of the next generation developing depression also increases.

2. Should not get married or have children

Marriage and childbearing are not recommended during an active depressive episode or when the condition is highly unstable. If depression occurs after marriage and long-term medication is required for control, having children is not advised, as medications may affect fetal development and increase risks such as birth defects, miscarriage, and premature delivery.

During pregnancy, taking medication without medical supervision is not recommended. It is important to communicate frequently with family members, develop healthy lifestyle habits, and maintain a positive mood, all of which help manage depressive episodes.

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