While it is commonly associated with mothers, fathers can also experience PPD. Often referred to as paternal postpartum depression (PPPD), this condition is less discussed and can be challenging to recognise, which is why we should break the silence surrounding it and raise awareness about common symptoms, risk factors, and the support that's available. Here’s what you need to know about PPPD.
Understanding Paternal Postpartum Depression
PPPD is a form of clinical depression that can affect fathers after the birth of a child. It's estimated that around 10% of fathers experience significant postpartum depression, although this number could be higher due to underreporting. The reasons behind PPPD are multifaceted and can include hormonal changes, lack of sleep, increased stress, and the pressure of new responsibilities. Fathers may also feel neglected or overwhelmed, contributing to feelings of isolation and depression.
Signs and Symptoms of PPPD
Recognising the signs of PPPD can be challenging because they often overlap with general stress or the adjustments to new parenthood. Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
Mood Swings and Irritability: Sudden changes in mood, increased irritability, or anger can be indicators. Your partner is reacting more intensely than usual to small issues.
Withdrawal from Family and Friends: Your partner is isolating themselves from social interactions or seems disconnected from you and the baby.
Changes in Sleep Patterns: Insomnia or excessive sleeping beyond the demands of new parenthood.
Lack of Interest or Pleasure in Activities: Your partner no longer finds joy in activities they previously enjoyed or shows a lack of interest in bonding with the baby.
Increased Anxiety and Worry: Excessive worry about the baby’s health or their role as a parent.
Changes in Appetite: Significant changes in eating habits, whether it’s overeating or a lack of appetite, can be a sign.
Feelings of Guilt or Inadequacy: Expressing feelings of worthlessness, guilt about not being a good parent, or feeling like a failure.
Substance Abuse: Turning to alcohol or drugs to cope with stress and emotions.
Risk Factors
Various factors can contribute to the development of PPPD:
Hormonal Changes: Decreases in testosterone are thought to promote parent-infant bonding but can also contribute to mood changes.
Environmental Stressors: Lack of social support and financial stress can increase the risk of depression.
Pregnancy Complications and Birth Trauma: Difficulties during pregnancy or birth can affect both parents.
Sleep Deprivation: Chronic lack of sleep can significantly impact mental health.
History of Mental Illness: A personal or family history of mental health issues can increase susceptibility.
"Of particular importance, maternal depression is the most influential risk factor for the onset of PPD in new fathers. This is different than maternal postpartum depression in which her own mental health history is the strongest risk factor, demonstrating yet another way in which PPD differs from maternal depression." (source: psychology today)
Prevention & Treatment
Preventing and treating paternal postpartum depression involves a combination of proactive measures and therapeutic interventions.
Prevention
Prenatal Involvement: Encourage fathers to be actively involved during pregnancy. Attending antenatal appointments, birthing classes, and preparing for the baby's arrival can help fathers feel more connected and less anxious about their new role.
Building a Support Network: Together, establish a strong support system of friends, family, and familiarise yourselves with local parenting support groups before baby arrives. Knowing there are people to turn to can alleviate feelings of isolation.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can significantly impact mental health. Encouraging these habits can help manage stress levels.
Treatment
Professional Counselling and Therapy: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychotherapy can be effective in treating PPPD. A therapist can help fathers develop coping strategies and address negative thought patterns.
Medication: In some cases, antidepressants may be prescribed to help manage symptoms. It’s important to discuss the benefits and risks with a healthcare provider.
Support Groups: Joining a support group for new fathers can provide a sense of community and shared understanding. Sharing experiences with others in similar situations can be comforting and therapeutic.
Mindfulness and Stress-Reduction Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
What You Can Do to Help
If you suspect your partner may be suffering from PPPD, it’s crucial to approach the situation with compassionate understanding and support. Here are steps you can take:
Open Communication: Encourage your partner to talk about their feelings. Listen without judgment and let them know you’re there to support them.
Seek Professional Help: Encourage your partner to speak with a healthcare provider. Therapy, counselling, or medication might be necessary and can provide significant relief.
Encourage Connections: Encourage your partner to maintain social connections and spend time with friends and family. Social support is crucial for mental health.
Promote Healthy Habits: Promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep.
Be Patient and Understanding: Recovery from depression takes time. Be patient and continue to offer your support and understanding.
Look after yourself: As mothers, we often prioritise everyone else's well-being before our own, but it’s important to look after your own mental and physical health if your partner is struggling.
More Support
PANDAS is a charity that supports perinatal mental health. It offers a free helpline.
Andys Man Club run UK-wide talking groups for men.
Dadsnet is the biggest network of dads in the UK.
Dope Black Dads is a digital safe space for fathers who wish to discuss their experiences of being black, a parent and masculinity in the modern world.
In Bristol... Dad Matters Bristol offers drop-ins at maternity centres, and community venues, provides 1:1 peer support to dads, signposting to other services, and supports dads to access services and information to help make sense of being a dad and supporting dads with anxiety, stress and mental health awareness.
