Having a baby is an event that typically brings a lot of joy and excitement for couples. However, roughly 60% of new mothers suffer from postpartum depression (PPD), with symptoms being either moderate or severe. Fortunately, PPD is becoming a more common health issue with increased discussion and content outlining the symptoms and treatment.

What’s not commonly discussed is that new fathers can absolutely suffer from depression as well. While this depression is usually caused by stress and lack of sleep, hormonal shifts may also have a role as research shows that dads show a decrease in testosterone immediately after the birth of their baby. In fact, according to the JAMA Network, roughly 10% of new fathers suffer from PPD and if mom has been diagnosed with PPD, 1 in 2 dads will likely be diagnosable too.

Because of these recent findings, researchers are now recommending that both new mothers AND new fathers (or expectant mothers and fathers) get regular screenings for signs of depression. This is especially important in new mothers and fathers with a history of mental health issues in their own past, or in their family lineage.

Symptoms of Dad’s with PPD

• Frustration, anger, and irritability

• Impulsivity

• Sadness, hopelessness, and overwhelm

• Frustration and discouragement

• Cynical attitude

• Risky behaviors, like substance use or gambling

• Appetite changes

• Violence toward their partner

• Discouragement of breastfeeding or pumping

• Increased attention and time spent at work

• Physical symptoms, like headaches, stomach aches, racing heart, or unexplained pain

A study out of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas published in the Journal of Family Issues a handful of reasons PPD in new fathers is often ignored:

Lack of Information

Fathers simply didn’t know they could suffer from PPD and so they ignored any symptoms they were experiencing, and instead focused on supporting their partner.

Gender Expectations

Many men feel they need to be “manly” and act like a “tough guy” that isn’t bothered by emotions. Also, often times men feel they have to remain strong for their partner, and therefore hide or fail to acknowledge their own emotional experience.

Repressed Feelings

Men are often reluctant to share their feelings, let alone seek help because of them.

With these new findings, hopefully, more men will pay attention to how they are feeling and seek help should they feel depression creeping on.

If you or a loved one is a new father that is suffering from PPD and would like to explore treatment options, please contact us now.