Social Worker: Adopting After Treatment for Depression

Question: If a now-healthy adult has been under treatment for depression in the past, will that make it harder to adopt a child?

Most likely, no. As long as the individual is currently in treatment with medication and/or therapy, is asymptomatic and has demonstrated the capacity to parent, this should not necessarily preclude you from adopting. A 'now-healthy' adult has a good chance to successfully adopt. Either way, you will need a favorable letter from your Doctor stating your present good health both physically and emotionally.

Keep in mind that domestic, independent adoptions have fewer restrictions, as they are handled privately between the adoption triad of the birth mother, adoptive parent and attorney. International adoptions will vary depending on the agency and country, some allow a history of the diagnosis of depression and some will not.

I hope this information is helpful to you. Best wishes as you pursue your journey to create your forever family.

by Leslie Zindulka, LCSW-R

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Disclaimer

The information and advice provided is intended to be general information, NOT as advice on how to deal with a particular child's situation and or problem. If your child has a specific problem you need to ask your pediatrician about it - only after a careful history and physical exam can a medical diagnosis and/or treatment plan be made. This Web site does not constitute a physician-patient relationship.

This material has been provided by AdoptionDoctors.com, an innovative adoption medicine private practice and educational service, dedicated to helping parents and adoption agencies with the complex pre-adoption medical issues of internationally adopted children. All medical interactions are performed via, e-mail, express mail, telephone, and fax. There is no need to make a live appointment or travel outside of your hometown. For more information, visit AdoptionDoctors.com or call 631-499-4114.