Post-Partum Mental Health and Fathers
A baby will change your life.
Men experience significant life changes after becoming fathers. Though many of the new experiences are wonderful- holding a baby, learning about what makes baby happy, and feeling love and comfort, some experiences involved are stressful. There are many new things to adjust to- schedules, logistics of family outings, and increased financial responsibility just to name a few.
Figuring out how to co-parent, support a partner, soothe a crying baby, family expectations, and balancing home life with work and/or life outside the home each come with unique challenges. After most births, the mother is designated as the primary caregiver and the father as the secondary, so he may have less leave from work to spend with his new child.
Often our focus is on mothers due to the prevalence of maternal post-partum mental health issues, but that does not require us to neglect care for fathers. Very little mental health screenings exist and/or are utilized for men once they become fathers. Our society often tells us that in order to be masculine, you must hide your emotions. Talking about mental health, feelings towards baby, or towards your partner can be stigmatized in a negative way. A father’s feelings are valid, and it is important to recognize when you or someone your care about needs to speak with a professional mental health provider.
According to a meta-analysis of 43 studies, 10.4% of new fathers experience depression compared to 4.8% of the general male population (Promoting Postpartum Mental Health in Fathers: Recommendations for Nurse Practitioners (nih.gov)). In couples, the likelihood of a partner experiencing Post-Partum Depression and/or anxiety can also have an effect on a father. In the postnatal period, the 12 months following a child’s birth, it is estimated that rates of depression range from 24% to 50% for fathers whose spouses experience maternal PPD (Promoting Postpartum Mental Health in Fathers: Recommendations for Nurse Practitioners (nih.gov)).
Are you a new father wondering about your risk for depression and/or anxiety? The Postpartum Support Center suggests you ask yourself the following:
· “Have you had depression and/or anxiety before?
· Does your partner have postpartum depression and/or anxiety?
· Do you have a lack of practical, emotional or social support?
· Are you feeling the burden of financial stress?
· Did you support your partner through a difficult birth?
· Do you have current or past issues with drugs or alcohol?
· Is your baby unwell?
· Are you going through major life changes and/or relationship difficulties?
· Are you finding the reality of parenting different from your expectations?”
(For Dads | Postpartum Support Center (postpartumsc.org))
If you or your partner find yourselves struggling with post-partum mental health concerns, support is available. Postpartum Support International has a great list of resources, including support groups, social media pages, and information that can be found here: Help for Dads | Postpartum Support International (PSI). Don’t see what you’re looking for or need more information? Reach out to your BenefitBump Care Navigator with any questions or for additional information.