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(see below, Postpartum Depression in Men)
When your partner has a perinatal mood disorder:
What You May Be Feeling
Fathers May Feel:
What Can You Do?
Postpartum Depression in Men (or Paternal Postnatal Depression- PPND)
Researchers estimate as many as 10% of men will experience postpartum depression, or Paternal
Postnatal Depression. Some experts believe it could be more like 1 in 4 dads, though numbers
are difficult to come by. Fathers often do not realize they can also be affected by postpartum
depression and thus most never seek help or treatment.
To learn more about Postpartum Depression in Men, click here, and watch Dr. Christina Hibbert's
interview on ABC15's Smart Family. You may also wish to visit www.postpartummen.com
website. It has a self-screener for men, information about PPND and even options to participate
in research on this important topic.
When your partner has a perinatal 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
- You want to 'fix' this problem and feel frustrated because
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.
Postpartum Depression in Men (or Paternal Postnatal Depression- PPND)
Researchers estimate as many as 10% of men will experience postpartum depression, or Paternal
Postnatal Depression. Some experts believe it could be more like 1 in 4 dads, though numbers
are difficult to come by. Fathers often do not realize they can also be affected by postpartum
depression and thus most never seek help or treatment.
To learn more about Postpartum Depression in Men, click here, and watch Dr. Christina Hibbert's
interview on ABC15's Smart Family. You may also wish to visit www.postpartummen.com
website. It has a self-screener for men, information about PPND and even options to participate
in research on this important topic.
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For Fathers
