Do you think that a person with a mental illness can be a loving, competent parent?

Question

Accepted Answer

Honestly, fuck whoever said no to this.
Obviously there are certain cases in which a specific mental illness might make it impossible for an individual. But ultimately, a mental illness is not unlike a disability. It makes things difficult, and the person living with the illness may require extra tools to manage, but most if not all things are still possible.
Someone who is aware of their mental illness and willing to put forth the extra effort can certainly be a loving, capable parent.

Answer

My uncle is autistic and when he was 19 (about 30yrs ago) he got someone pregnant. he has always been there for his daughter, and while he couldn't provide much financially (he can't work, only gets disability) he would NEVER forget her birthday or a Xmas present, and would always help her mom in taking care of the girl. his daughter loves him so much and he has a great relationship with her and her kids. so yes, anyone can be an amazing parent if they have a good heart. it's not always about money, just being there can be enough.

Answer

Why not? As long as you have a support group & are actively working on yourself, it’s absolutely possible.

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I have major depression and I literally raise my nephew though his mother is sound of mind. So, even without this context, I'd say yes. *rolls eyes at the 7%*

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i have ptsd im a great parent and i jave so much support from my kids and my husband it doesnt matter if you have any sort of illness you are always going to be a great parent no matter what. i hate ppl who shame out mental illness parents no body needs that. anybody can have it your next door neighbor could have it and you wouldnt even know because they are great parents take there kids to places and go shopping but you dont know that they have it they put a smile on their faces to let you know they are fine but inside its diffrent but they wont show it and thats ok they are still great parents. sorry for the long comment lol

Answer

it honestly depends on the mental ilness and the individual person, personally i know more people with mental illness that should not have children because they cant raise them or take care of them. but again it depends on the the particular person

Answer

I worry about this often. 
But I try my best to show to my daughter how much I love her because I do and how I feel inside has nothing to do with her. I may be sad most days and cry and refuse to get out of the bed but whenever I see her, I put that aside and make an effort and I put all my energy into making her laugh/smile. 
The worst thing you can tell me is that I’m harmful to my daughter for being depressed and anxious, that makes me feel worse because never would I ever want her to feel less loved, just because of what I’m going through. When visiting my psychiatrist and he asks about my daughter, it’s guaranteed that I’d cry.

Answer

I think it would depend on the mental illness. If they can function and are able to love and care for another then I don’t see why they wouldn’t be a great parent..?

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Depends. I believe an adult with severe schizophrenia or antisocial personality disorder or other debilitating diseases where they could hurt a child and not care/realize couldn’t be a good parent. But like half the population has depression, it’s the common cold of mental health, parents are fine with it.

Answer

I have general anxiety disorder, OCD and a dissociation disorder. I am pregnant with my first child and the father has schizophrenia. Both of us are lovely people who love to the full. There is no reason someone with mental illnesses can't have a child or be a good parent. As long as there's a good support network in place, all is fine.

Do you think that a person with a mental illness can be a loving, competent parent?

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