Losing Parents Early Impacts Kids' Mental Health, and Boys May Suffer More

A recent long-term study conducted in Finland, which followed almost 1 million adults, has shed light on the impact of early-life parental death on mental health outcomes in adulthood. The findings consistently showed a higher risk of hospitalization due to mental health disorders, increased use of mental health-related medications, and more frequent absences from work due to illness among individuals who experienced the loss of a parent at a young age.

Interestingly, the study found that these associations were negative regardless of the gender of the child or parent. However, the estimated odds ratios were generally higher for males compared to females. Men were found to be 70% more likely to be hospitalized, while women were 52% more likely than the control group.

Substance abuse and self-harm were identified as the most common reasons for hospitalization among those who experienced early-life parental death. Boys and young men who lost their mothers before the age of 21 were hospitalized 2.5 times more often than those who lost their mothers in their 30s. Similarly, girls and young women who lost their fathers early were twice as likely to develop a substance abuse disorder compared to the control group.

Furthermore, the study revealed that all young people who experienced the premature loss of a parent had fewer years of schooling, higher rates of unemployment, and lower income levels compared to the control group.

It is essential to note that while this study provides valuable insights, it is important to interpret the results cautiously. As an observational study, it does not account for various personality and genetic factors that could influence the outcomes. However, it does serve as a reminder to professionals working with young people that those who have lost parents early in life are at an increased risk of facing numerous challenges.  We need to be prepared to support our clients who have experienced these losses.