The birth of a child impacts both new parents. Dads are affected by the stress of the parenthood transition, anxiety or depressive symptoms, role changes, relationship challenges, and of course, the pervasive lack of sleep. There is a strong correlation between maternal mental health concerns and paternal mental health concerns.
10-20 % of new dads may experience postpartum depression.
5-18 % of new dads may experience postpartum anxiety.
Dad’s postpartum depression rate increases to 25 % or higher if partner has PPD.
Most paternal mental health concerns never get diagnosed or treated.
For dads, postpartum mental health concerns can surface early on, or arise later, around 3-6 months into new parenthood. Numerous new changes happen to a couple during the first 6 months of parenting, with both partners experiencing challenges. Many new dads report seeing their wives struggle and feeling pressure to be strong and hold it together for their partners and family. This inability to get support themselves often pushes aside their emotional response. Commonly reported feelings include stress, anger, sadness, a mix of joy and loss, fear, overwhelm, and helplessness. Behaviors may include avoidance, detachment, isolation, focus on work, and coping with alcohol or substances. Barriers to help include lack of information about paternal mental health, lack of time, and perceived stigma toward therapy support.
Additional factors impacting dads:
Unresolved PTSD from wife’s birth trauma or NICU stay, and related fears of losing wife or baby.
Short paternal leaves. May feel loss of attachment to child / missing out during return to work.
Loss of relationship support as partner focuses solely on baby’s needs.
Lack of intimacy and connection as all interactions with partner revolve around the constant to do list.
Dads are also part of the sandwich generation, pulled between caring for aging parents and their own growing family responsibilities.
Mental health challenges impact the entire family. I often support new dads in my practice, and I am happy to refer to male therapist colleagues if requested.