Depression in Working Mothers: What Causes Depression and Anxiety in Moms? Symptoms of Depression in Working Moms & Treatment Options
For many working mothers, the daily juggle of career demands, household responsibilities, and childcare can feel like an impossible balancing act. The pressure to “do it all” can lead to chronic stress, fatigue, and emotional burnout. Over time, this strain may contribute to symptoms of depression and anxiety, including persistent sadness, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and feelings of guilt or inadequacy.
These challenges are not just emotional—they have real physiological effects on the body. Chronic stress triggers the release of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, which can disrupt sleep patterns, impair concentration, weaken the immune system, and increase the risk of developing conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and metabolic disorders. Additionally, the emotional toll of ongoing stress can lead to changes in brain chemistry, affecting neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play key roles in mood regulation.
Depression and anxiety in working mothers often go unrecognized or are dismissed as normal stress, but untreated mental health conditions can have long-term effects on both mothers and their children. Research shows that maternal depression can influence child development, impacting emotional regulation, cognitive abilities, and even long-term health outcomes.
Schedule a free discovery call with Dr. Doi to begin your journey toward emotional balance. Dr. Doi specializes in identifying and addressing the unique matters of depression and anxiety in working mothers through warm and personalized care.