In recent years, awareness has grown around the impact of postpartum depression not just on mothers, but also on fathers. Many men experience a form of depression after the arrival of their child, yet it’s often overlooked. Here, we explore the realities of two fathers who navigated this challenging experience.
For example, it was just two weeks after the birth of his daughter when Mark Thompson began to feel overwhelmed. At a family gathering, a wave of despair hit him as soon as his close friends departed. “I felt as though I was being left behind in the challenging journey of parenthood, and my emotions just spiraled from there,” Mark recalls. He quickly recognized that something was amiss and confided in his partner. “My wife is incredibly supportive, and she noticed my change in mood almost immediately. We had many discussions about it,” he shares. Within days, Mark sought help from a psychologist and received a diagnosis of acute depression, commonly referred to as postpartum depression (PPD).
While there isn’t an officially recognized mental health diagnosis for PPD in fathers, known as paternal postpartum depression or paternal perinatal depression (PPND), research indicates that many dads indeed experience some level of depression after their child’s birth. Understanding the symptoms and causes of this condition can help in identifying and treating it.
Factors contributing to PPD in men can vary from hormonal changes to the stress of new responsibilities. Fortunately, there are strategies to help prevent and manage PPD, including open communication with partners and seeking professional support.
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In summary, postpartum depression in fathers is a significant issue that deserves more attention. By sharing experiences and seeking help, fathers can find support during this critical time in their lives.