Did you know you are not the only one who can experience depression after delivery?
Your partner can also develop this medical issue. This again can impact the whole family.
So grab your partner and let’s learn about this today.
Depression affects 1 out of 10 new dads and can occur during or up to 1 year after the delivery.
Surprised? But fathers also experience changes after childbirth in roles and tasks which can be a challenge to their mental health.
True! Fathers may not have the typical symptoms you think about with depression….feeling sad, down or weepy.
Common symptoms for paternal postpartum depression include:
Tiredness
Headaches and pain
Irritability and anger
Anxiety
Decreased sex drive
Changes in appetite
Feeling overwhelmed and out of control
Impulsivity or taking risks
Lack of sleep
Feelings of isolation and disconnection
Withdrawal from family (i.e. working more hours)
Increased use of drugs or alcohol
True! According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), up to 50% of fathers may have postpartum depression when the mother also has perinatal/postpartum depression.
Maternal depression is one of the most important risk factors for depression in fathers.
FALSE! Testosterone has been shown to decrease at the end of the partner's pregnancy and during postpartum. This drop in testosterone is thought to help express more sympathy and need to respond to baby’s cries. But lower testosterone is also associated with higher risk of depression.
Other hormones such as estrogen, oxytocin, or prolactin also decrease and some research suggests it may also add to causes of mood dysregulation after delivery.
Other risk factors for paternal postpartum depression include:
Previous history of depression
Other psychiatric disorders.
Relationship problems
Low self-esteem
Feelings of incompetence in parenting
First time father.
Financial / Work Stress
Difficulty developing an attachment with the baby
Lack of social support or help from family and friends
Just like when a mother has postpartum depression, paternal postpartum depression also has a negative impact on the baby, partner and family.
Paternal postpartum depression is associated with increased emotional and behavioral problems in childhood and adolescence. It also is associated with relationship conflicts.
One study showed that almost 60% of couples had at least one partner who had depression in late pregnancy or after the delivery. Mental health of both parents is critical to the health of the family.
That is why it is important to recognize and get treatment if a father has postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression does not make anyone a bad parent. This is just a medical issue that will improve with the right care. Talk to a therapist or call a healthcare provider to make sure your partner or you get the treatment you need.
Postpartum depression can affect a father or mother. The main symptoms may appear differently but the treatment is the same!
Reach out to get support if you think you may be experiencing paternal postpartum depression.
MaternalWell has mental health specialists to give you the support you need. Contact our text support for any general questions.
