WHEN YOUR WIFE/PARTNER HAS A POSTPARTUM MOOD DISORDER: What You May Be Feeling Fathers May Feel: 'Pulled' between the demands of work and home You are taking on the role of the 'mother' as well as father You can't do anything right Your efforts go unnoticed by her You may fear your wife/partner will never be the same You may feel angry that your wife/partner is not 'pulling       her weight' at home You want to 'fix' this problem and feel frustrated because       there is no apparent solution What Can You Do? Take time to learn all you can about postpartum mood disorders in order to understand what she is experiencing. (See the 'Resources' section of this website for information). Let her know you recognize that she is not making up her symptoms and that this is not her fault. Let her know that you love her, support her, and are there for her. Help with the care of the baby as much as you are able, allowing time for your wife/partner to take naps or sleep during the night. Enlist family, friends, and/or the community to help with care of the baby, household, other children, and/or meals in order to provide your wife/partner with time to care for herself. Let her know that you understand she may not be interested in sex and that you love her and enjoy holding her. Be sure to take some time for yourself and encourage your wife to do the same. Help her monitor her symptoms and seek out professional help when needed.  Don't quit until you find someone who understands Postpartum Mood Disorders.  (See www.postpartum.net  for resources in your area). Remember that this is 100% treatable and she will be well.

For Fathers