Postnatal depression in men

According to beyondblue, depression affects up to nine per cent of women during pregnancy and 16 per cent of all new mothers. While these figures may not surprise some, this one might: one in 20 men may experience symptoms of depression in the first year of their baby’s life.

Parents preparing for the arrival of a baby speak about and prepare – as best they can – a birth plan. Not surprisingly, difficult or early births are rarely considered and neither is the prospect of having a baby who might need to spend an extended amount of time in hospital. A history of depression or anxiety, little emotional or practical support apart from that provided by their partner, and existing financial or other stresses are all factors that can make the new dad (or mum) of a premmie even more susceptible to depression.

beyondblue suggests new dads should plan quality time alone with their partner, be aware of their health and wellbeing, and ask for help from family members and friends, even for small things, if they are feeling at all overwhelmed. It’s completely understandable for anyone with a premmie baby to feel as though life is out of control, so it’s important to find support from others so they can start to enjoy being a dad.

For more information on postnatal depression in dads, you can visit the beyondblue website. The organisation also has a program that encourages new parents experiencing depression and anxiety to Just Speak Up, and the website provides real-life stories of other parents navigating similar situations.