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The financial burden faced by many single mothers has been found to be the main reason single mothers are more likely to experience mental health problems than mothers with partners. A new study published in the Journal of Behavioural Brain Research shows that although the level of maternal care of single prairie vole mothers is on par with partnered mothers, the emotional health of single mothers is much more negatively affected than in female prairie voles in a dual parental arrangement. [More]

There are many causes for mental illness, including biological, social, and emotional factors. Being a single mother can be incredibly stressful, and stress can contribute to the development of mental illness, or aggravate existing mental health problems. In one study, single mothers were found to have more incidences of moderate to severe mental disability than women who had partners to help with parenting. Financial hardship and lack of social support were two factors thought to contribute to the increased incidence of mental illness Crosier, Butterworth, & Rodgers, 2007). [More]