Aupair with depression and anxiety

[Pinksun12]

We’re looking for a replacement aupair and Skyped with a lovely girl. Her references were also great. I think she would be a good fit for our family, but when I asked about any health issues she replied that she has depression and anxiety and is on medication. Now I don’t know much about depression myself but would this be a dealbreaker for you?

Yes. I wouldn't want my children left in charge of a young girl who is away form home, may not speak the language and has a history of mental health issues. The job could be too stressful and isolating for her, She could get ill and then you will be parenting her as well as your DC when you already need extra help. (I speak as someone with long term depression and I know how hard it is to keep going when it kicks in.)

Thank you, this is my gut feeling. Even if she has her depression under control now, being in a different country, possibly feeling isolated and the stress of looking after kids could trigger a new episode and she has no immediate medical safety net? Argh! She seemed so lovely

If she has good references and has been honest and upfront, I'd take the risk.

Is she from very far away? I'd say there's a big difference employing someone from eg China and someone from France in this kind of case.

People with mh problems can be much more empathetic with children too, I find (obviously not in every case).

I wouldn't take the risks for the reasons outlined. It's not fair on her or your kids

Thank you all. I’ve declined her in the end, she would be better off in a big city with fewer kids in the family I believe.