Will Lack Of Nurturing During Childrens' Growing Years Affect Their Mental Health?

Posted on Sun, 18 Oct 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 18 Oct 2015 Answered on

Wed, 4 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am a 55 year old woman with mental illness. Since I was about 8 to 24 my family ex-communicated me. Each time I would approach a family member like mom I would say I am growing up into a young woman I need someone to talk to about some issues I am having she would say talk to your sister. When I get to her house she wouldn't talk to me either. My cognitive thinking is all dis=shelved.. I just would like to confirm from my own analysis that if you don't nurture a young child to adulthood when the brain is forming you can create mental health issues in the future. True or False?

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (34 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question.

This is absolutely true. The early childhood environment is a time we learn how to form connections with people, and how to deal with stress in a healthy way. If children are neglected or grow up in dangerous or unhealthy environments, they are at much higher risk of diseases like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, among other things.

My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX psychiatrist working in New York City. For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, or individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T