Do Dads Struggle with Postpartum Depression??

Welcoming a newborn into the world is undoubtedly one of life's most joyous occasions. However, amid the celebration, the postpartum period can bring unexpected challenges, not only for mothers but also for fathers. Postpartum depression in fathers, often overshadowed by its prevalence in mothers, is a crucial topic that demands attention. In this blog post, we'll delve into the prevalence, signs, and effective coping strategies for fathers grappling with postpartum depression.

The Unseen Struggle

Postpartum depression isn’t just a “mom thing.” In fact, around 10% of fathers report symptoms, though that number may be higher due to stigma and underreporting. Many dads don’t even realize they’re struggling with it. Maybe it's the cultural expectation that men are supposed to “tough it out” or the fact that emotions often get pushed aside when you're trying to adjust to a new baby. But depression doesn’t discriminate—and neither should our awareness of it.

Spotting the Signs

Dads, just like moms, can feel a deep sadness or irritability after bringing home a newborn. But it often looks different. A father experiencing postpartum depression might withdraw, snap at loved ones, or lose interest in activities he once enjoyed. Other red flags can include changes in sleep (besides what the baby is causing), weight fluctuations, or even trouble bonding with the baby. It’s not uncommon for fathers to feel like they’re “failing” at parenthood, which can feed into a cycle of guilt and anxiety.

Breaking the Silence

Opening up about postpartum depression can feel like walking a tightrope, especially for men who’ve been taught to bottle things up. If you’ve noticed changes in your partner’s mood or behavior, creating space for conversation is key. Start by picking a calm, private moment to bring it up—no one likes feeling cornered. You might say something like, “Hey, I’ve noticed you’ve been feeling off lately, do you want to talk about it?” This approach avoids blame while giving them the chance to share what’s really going on.

What Can Help?

Here’s where things get practical. Coping with postpartum depression requires a blend of self-care, support, and sometimes professional help. But what does that look like in real life?

1. Take care of yourself too: Remind dads that it’s okay to carve out moments for themselves. Whether it's a jog, watching a game, or even just getting enough sleep (when possible), little pockets of self-care matter.
2. Talk to someone who gets it: Sometimes, the best support is just knowing you’re not alone. Connecting with other fathers who’ve been through it or even leaning on family and friends can make a huge difference.
3. Get help from a pro: Therapy can be a game-changer. A professional trained in postpartum depression, especially someone who understands how it presents in men, can provide tools to cope with these emotions.
4. Get involved with the baby: Sometimes dads feel disconnected from the baby, which adds to the frustration. Being hands-on with childcare—whether it's bath time or bottle feeds—helps build that bond and can ease some of those negative feelings.
5. Learn more and normalize the conversation: Talking about mental health is still seen as taboo for many, especially for dads. But the more we educate ourselves, the more we can support each other. Postpartum depression is real, and it’s treatable.

Support is Here

If you're a dad experiencing any of these signs—or if you’ve noticed them in your partner—it’s time to reach out for help. At Couples to Cradles Counselling, we specialize in supporting both moms and dads as they navigate the emotional rollercoaster of parenthood. Our therapists offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore what you’re going through and develop practical strategies to manage it. Don’t wait until things feel unmanageable—schedule a free consultation with us and start finding your way back to feeling like yourself. Book a free consultation here

Let’s break the silence around postpartum depression in fathers. You deserve support just as much as anyone else—so why not take the first step today?

‍

‍