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.

Written By Leslie Zindulka