Maternal postpartum depression is very common, and thousands of studies have been conducted to identify its patterns and explore ways to manage it. But what about new fathers? Unfortunately, the mental health of a newborn’s father has often been neglected, even though paternal postpartum depression is also quite common. This article sheds light on a fast-growing yet neglected mental health issue: paternal postpartum depression, which affects many new fathers.
What is Paternal Postpartum Depression
Paternal postpartum depression, a non-psychotic mood disorder, affects some new dads during the initial months following the birth of their baby. Symptoms of paternal postnatal depression include hostility, violent behaviour, increased substance usage, impatience, low motivation, and poor focus. Suicidal thoughts, withdrawal from relationships, and working significantly more or less are all hallmarks of it. It’s more prevalent than many people realize. Addressing the root causes of this issue can ultimately help fathers and families access the support they truly need.
Key Factors Responsible for Paternal Postpartum Depression
Unemployment
One key contributor to paternal postpartum depression is being unemployed. Fathers who are currently looking for work but cannot get a job can become stressed, frustrated, and self-doubting, particularly when they’re also trying to care for a newborn.
Lack of Social Support
New dads may be quite lonely if they do not have support and encouragement from their community, friends, or relatives. Lack of emotional support can lead to the new duties feeling like an overwhelming burden.
Negative Life Events
A father’s risk of becoming depressed after the birth of his child may be higher if he experiences difficulty, such as losing a loved one, living with a serious illness, or having financial problems.
Perception of Stress
The way fathers respond to everyday stressors—such as work, money, and parenting difficulties—can have a significant influence on their emotional state. A general sense of being “on edge” all the time can
result in depression symptoms.
Maternal Postnatal and Postpartum Depression
Maternal depression is a significant risk factor for paternal depression. Some studies of postpartum fathers have highlighted that risk factors associated with maternal depression also play an important role in paternal depression, suggesting that fathers are 2.5 times more likely to be depressed at 6 weeks postpartum if their partner is also suffering from depression.
Previous Medical or Mental Health Illness
Dads with previous physical or mental health problems tend to become depressed after the birth of their child. Sometimes, under the stressful upheavals, old ailments may stage a comeback.
By shedding light on its causes and recognizing its symptoms, we can help fathers feel seen, supported, and better equipped to care for their growing families.
