In recent years, we've started to shine a light on perinatal mental health, but this focus tends to spotlight moms’ struggles, leaving dads out of the picture. While depression in mothers is relatively well-documented, fathers also experience this condition, yet its effects on family dynamics have received less attention even though they too face significant mental health challenges during this time.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is typically defined as a major depressive episode that happens shortly after the birth of a child. While it's most commonly reported in mothers, dads aren't immune either. There's no set criteria for diagnosing PPD in men, but it can show up within a year of the baby's birth, with symptoms like irritability, restricted emotions, and depression.
"I had severe postpartum depression and anxiety after my first son was born in 2020. I was always frustrated and angry at small things, and my husband often bore the brunt of it. He was confused and wondered, ‘Who is this person I married, and what happened to her?’ He had a lot to handle, worrying about me, our relationship, our finances, and taking care of our new baby. Now, we realize he probably suffered too. But he felt he couldn’t say anything because he didn’t give birth or have a C-section. He felt overlooked while trying to manage everything" says Anita, a mom who went through her own postpartum struggles.
So, what puts new dads at risk? A history of depression in either parent, financial stress, and even hormonal changes can play a part. PPD in dads can also be linked to anxiety disorders and can have a ripple effect, negatively impacting the father, the whole family unit, and the child's development.
In India, new fathers' struggles often get chalked up to anxiety, stress, or sleeplessness related to the financial burden of a new baby. But there's so much more to the story. These challenges can actually be due to a range of factors that lead to postpartum depression (PPD) and various other mental health issues.
Sure, financial stresses are a biggie, but let’s not forget about the emotional and psychological hurdles new dads face. Changes in relationships, hormonal shifts, societal pressures, changes in intimacy with the partner and lack of emotional support can all play a role. Unfortunately, these issues often get overlooked, leading to under diagnosis and not enough support.
Dealing with postpartum depression (PPD) as a dad can be tough, but there are steps you can take to tackle it and feel better:
Know the Signs: Look out for symptoms like feeling extra irritable, moody, withdrawing from others, or having trouble sleeping or eating. These signs can show up even if you think you're just stressed from being a new parent.
Talk About How You Feel: It's important to share what you're going through with your partner, family, or friends. Talking about your feelings can make a big difference and help you get support.
Get Professional Help: Don't hesitate to reach out to an expert who knows how to help with PPD. They can give you advice, talk things through with you, or even suggest medicine if that's what you need.
Take Care of Yourself: Try to keep up with a routine that includes enough sleep, regular exercise, and eating well. Taking time for things you enjoy can also lift your spirits.
Connect with Other Dads: Joining groups or online communities for dads going through PPD can be really helpful. Sharing your experiences with others who understand can give you comfort and good tips.
Get Involved with Baby Care: Spending time with your baby and helping out with their care can strengthen your bond and make you feel more connected.
Learn More about PPD: Educate yourself about PPD and how it can affect dads. The more you know, the better you can understand what you're going through and how to get help.
By recognising and addressing mental health challenges in fathers, we can help create healthier and happier families. Remember, it's okay to ask for support when you need it. Taking care of your mental health not only helps you but also makes a positive difference for your whole family.
If you are struggling, reach out to us today and book a free support call.
Great article Paridhi. Thanks for highlighting this. We need more organization to advocate how important it is for fathers also to be able to find support during pregnancy and post-birth period. I liked how you are catering to the wellbeing of the entire family and not just focusing on Mothers wellbeing. All the best.
It's very true that a father's struggle beyond the finances are overlooked! But kudos to you for bringing this into light! Great work :)