Birth, placenta size may indicate future mental health problems, study shows

By Staff Writer

A recent study reveals a link between the size of babies at birth and mental health problems that they may experience later in life.

The report, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Southampton and the Medical Research Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit at Southampton General Hospital, is based on a study of 140 babies soon after birth. The team of experts evaluated the blood flow to the brain and measured the differences in functions on the right and left sides of the vital organ.

Researchers concluded that babies who were born small in size, and with large placentas, exhibited more activity on the right side of the brains than the left. This is a pattern that is typically associated with mood disorders such as depression.

The epidemiologist who led the study said that growth of the fetus during pregnancy is affected by several factors, such as the mothers' diet and stress levels. She added that these behaviors can have long-term implications on the child's mental health.

Adolescents who suffer from mental health problems may benefit from wilderness therapy programs, which aim to provide help for troubled teens.