This episode explores the critical intersection of maternal mental health and child development, focusing on the implications of antidepressant use during pregnancy. Dr. Tim Oberlander discusses his extensive research on the effects of prenatal antidepressant exposure, the importance of managing maternal mental health, and the resilience of children despite various risk factors.

This conversation emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to treatment, considering both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies, while addressing common misconceptions surrounding antidepressants and their effects on child development.

Learn more about the topics discussed in this episode:

Potential risks and benefits of prenatal selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medications for maternal mental health and child development, Nature Mental Health

The question is not whether SSRIs are universally good or bad, but how best to support maternal mental health, Springer Nature Research Communities

An article that references the above work: Prenatal SSRI risks and benefits: Maternal, child impact, Scienmag

CANMAT’s clinical practice guidelines for the management of perinatal mood, anxiety, and related disorders: Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments 2024 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Perinatal Mood, Anxiety, and Related Disorders, The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry

All episodes written and produced by the Research Communications team at BC Children's Hospital Research Institute.

Theme music: "Life Is Beautiful" by Anastasia Kir