Overview

• A Finnish study of over 1.2 million participants confirms that young people with mental disorders are less likely to become parents compared to those without such diagnoses.
• Schizophrenia showed the strongest association, with affected individuals highly unlikely to have their first child by age 39.
• Depression and anxiety also significantly reduced parenthood likelihood, with men diagnosed with depression 38% less likely to father children and women 19% less likely to become mothers.
• Gender disparities were evident, as men with mental disorders were less likely to form cohabiting partnerships compared to women with similar diagnoses.
• Researchers emphasize the need for accessible mental health services to support young people in navigating family formation and other life decisions.