Common Psychological Problems For Surrendering Mothers

Research has consistently shown that adoption has a lasting psychological effect on surrendering mothers. They are prone to myriad psychological problems including depression, feelings of guilt and regret surrounding the adoption of their children, dissociative disorders, nightmares, flashbacks, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Most mothers report that their symptoms grow worse with the passing of time. They can be triggered by various events including the birth of subsequent children, adoption-related news stories, and reunion. They can also impact various aspects of the mother’s life, including her relationships with romantic partners, her attitude toward her other children, and her ability to trust others.

If you have lost a child to adoption, I recommend reading Adoption Healing by Joseph Soll and Karen Wilson-Buterbaugh. This book is an incredible tool for mothers who are looking to understand more about what was done to them by the adoption industry. It is also an invaluable resource for anyone interested in learning more about adoption and how to relate to mothers of adoption loss.