Singularity Academy Mental Health Webinar: Parental stress & depression

Doctor medic Mild, Chief of Adult Psychiatry at Verus Bonifatius Clinic, led an insightful webinar on Wednesday focussing on the critical issue of parental stress and depression. The event, organised by Singularity Academy, provided a platform for healthcare professionals and parents to discuss the emotional stress and mental health challenges that many families face on a day-to-day basis.

In his presentation, Doctor medic Mild explained that depression is not always characterised by typical signs such as sadness or withdrawal. It can creep subtly into the lives of those affected, for example through a lack of energy, joylessness or thought spirals that severely impair normal thinking and behaviour. ‘Depression can be like a chameleon,’ noted Doctor medic Mild. ‘It comes in different forms and many people don’t realise they have depression because it doesn’t fit the stereotypical symptoms.’

A particular focus of the webinar was on the specific challenges that parents face during stressful phases, especially after the birth of a child. Doctor medic. Mild addressed the unrealistic expectations that many mums and dads have and how these often lead to feelings of guilt. ‘Society expects new parents to see the birth of a child as the most wonderful experience,’ he said. „But the reality is often different. Many mothers experience postpartum depression after giving birth, which puts additional strain on them.“

The webinar emphasised that depression is not just an individual challenge, but can affect the entire family environment. Children are often sensitive to their parents‘ moods, which can lead to behavioural problems if the parents suffer from depression. Doctor medic. Mild emphasised the importance of early intervention and urged parents to seek help at the first sign of stress or depressive symptoms. ‘It’s important to understand that depression is treatable,’ he emphasised. ‘Both therapeutic and medicinal approaches can help to restore well-being.’

Another central point of the webinar was the discussion about family-centred treatment approaches used at the Verus Bonifatius Clinic. Doctor medic. Mild presented the Martemeo method, an innovative therapy that aims to promote healthy parent-child relationships. This method is based on video analysis of interactions between parents and children to identify and reinforce positive moments. ‘Instead of criticising the parents, the Martemeo method focuses on their strengths and resources,’ explained Doctor medic. Mild. ‘This helps to improve their bond with their children, which is essential to the healing process.’

Doctor medic. Mild also emphasised that depression can be treated not only through therapeutic measures, but that in many cases medication may also be necessary. He expressed understanding for the scepticism of many people towards medication and emphasised that the right balance must be found between minimal use and necessary dosage.

In conclusion, Doctor medic. Mild addressed the challenges faced by families without a social support system. In today’s society, he explained, it is increasingly difficult to fall back on traditional family networks, which used to be an important source of support in difficult times. This often means that parents suffering from depression have to struggle with their problems alone. The Verus Bonifatius Clinic offers comprehensive support in such cases and also takes the needs of the children into account. ‘We attach great importance to involving the whole family in the treatment process,’ said Dr Mild. ‘Children need to understand what is happening to their parents so that they don’t develop the feeling that they are responsible themselves.’

Verus Bonifatius Clinic, a leading mental health institution, continues to set the standard in the treatment of depression and parental stress. Through its innovative and family-centred approaches, the clinic helps not only sufferers but also their families to overcome the challenges of depression and find their way to a healthier life.