YES, Dads experience postpartum depression and anxiety too!
Postpartum depression in dads is more common than you might think
Even though most people have heard of postpartum depression and anxiety, it’s often talked about as something that mothers experience. You may not know that non-birthing parents can experience postpartum anxiety, depression, and PTSD too. Actually, if one parent has PPD then chances are high that the other might have it too. In fact, at least 1 in 5 moms and 1 in 10 dads experience postpartum depression, and likely that number is underreported.
The truth is, a new baby brings a lot of changes to the parents routine, including loss of sleep, lack of support, and feelings of overwhelm that can all add up to increased likelihood of postpartum depression. Some dads may be at increased risk, especially those who have had anxiety or depression in the past, if their partner is depressed, or due a lack of support.
What does postpartum depression (PPD) look like in new dads?
Irritability and increased frustration
Anger and outbursts
Sadness
Not engaging with the baby
Difficulty sleeping
Increased use of substances for coping, including alcohol, marijuana, and prescription medications
Thoughts of not doing enough or being enough
Isolating from family
Thoughts of wanting to hurt himself or die (sometimes)
What does postpartum anxiety (PPA) look like in new dads?
Excessive, or persistent, worring about their life or the baby’s life and the future
Feeling nervous or restless
Feelings of dread or impending doom
Panic Attacks
obsessive thoughts, and/or taking actions to try to stop the distressing thoughts
trouble sleeping due to worries and mind being unable to turn off
Feeling sad, angry, frustrated, or inadequate can all be normal experiences in early weeks after delivery, but if these feelings or thoughts persist, or intensify to the point that it is getting in the way of meaningful relationships, work, or other important aspects of life then it may be time to seek mental health support.
Postpartum depression & anxiety affects the whole family
Post-partum depression and anxiety in new dads doesn’t just affect dad. Left untreated, PPD in Dads is also linked to more strained relationships and increased family stress, poorer health for the baby, less frequent well visits for baby, increased risk of mental health issues for family members including baby, and behavioral problems in daycare or elementary school. Researchers found that depression in dads is associated with a 42% increased risk of depression in children. If you or someone you care about is expereincing PPD/PPA, your support will not just support them, it will also support the outcome for the entire family.
Support for postpartum depression in dads
If you are concerned about PPA/PPD or identify these symptoms in yourself/your partner, talk to a doctor and seek support. There is a self-screening tool for postpartum depression available HERE that you can use to get a basic sense of whether or not you might be in range for depression. If you do believe you have postpartum depression, it is highly treatable and support is available - check out The PSI Directory for therapists and psychiatrists in your area. Other helpful resources include daily exercise in nature, moving your body, connecting with a peer group or supportive friends, getting good sleep, and scheduling time off for you and your partner to connect without pressure.
Finally, if you have a new dad in your life, check in on him, ask him how he is feeling, bring meals or offer to clean the house, walk the dog, or even watch the baby while he (and mom) get some sleep. It takes a village, after all.
Check out our book recommendations for further readings on PPA/PPD in dads.