Mental health for partners
The birth of a baby is often celebrated as a joyous occasion, but for many partners, the postpartum period can bring unexpected challenges to their mental health. Up to 10-14% of new dads experience feelings of sadness (baby blues) or depression after the birth of a baby. Baby blues and postpartum depression can also affect same-sex couples, partners, and adoptive parents.
Understanding the signs of postpartum depression in partners is crucial for offering the right support during this transitional period. Symptoms may include withdrawal from social interactions, irritability or anxiety, loss of interest in hobbies or work, feelings of hopelessness or being overwhelmed, and sleep disturbances. Partners may also struggle with doubts about their parenting abilities, and exhibit irritability, anger, or aggression* (see note below). These issues often start within the first 3 to 6 months after birth but can develop up to a year later. Such struggles can impact their ability to cope with newborn care and adjust to parenthood, and can also strain their ability to support the birthing partner, making this time even more challenging.
Although postpartum depression is often discussed in relation to mothers, the pressures and expectations surrounding parenthood can affect partners profoundly, highlighting the need for awareness and support. The research is still evolving as to the causes of postpartum depression in partners, but it is likely a culmination of many factors, including hormonal shifts, financial pressures, changes in life circumstances, adjusting to new roles and more. Partners may hesitate to seek help, feeling that the focus should be on the birth parent and baby, but neglecting their own mental health only prolongs their suffering and impacts the whole family.
It's crucial for partners to recognize that their mental health matters and that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step toward healing. Spouses and partners play a vital role in the caregiving journey and must prioritize their well-being to effectively support their family. Encouraging open communication, seeking professional support, and engaging in self-care activities are essential strategies for partners to cope with postpartum depression.
In conclusion, supporting the mental health of partners after welcoming a new baby is paramount for fostering a healthy family environment. By recognizing the signs of postpartum depression and encouraging partners to seek help, we can ensure that they receive the support and care they need to navigate the challenges of parenthood with resilience and strength. Remember, no one should suffer in silence, and seeking help is a courageous step toward healing and well-being.
Resources:
Boot Camp for New Dads - “Boot Camp for New Dads® (aka Daddy Boot Camp®) is a unique father-to-father, community-based workshop that inspires and equips men of different economic levels, ages and cultures to become confidently engaged with their infants, support their mates and personally navigate their transformation into dads. Boot Camp is validated by research and has been named a best practice by many organizations that consider it an exceptional means of supporting dads-to-be and fostering behaviors that greatly benefit children and help prevent a wide range of social ills. Founded in 1990, the non-profit Boot Camp for New Dads has graduated more than 325,000 men, making it by far the nation’s largest program for new fathers, and is now offered in 44 states, on U.S. military bases, Canada and the U.K.”
Dads and Depression fact sheet from Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance.
Dads get depression too - The Perinatal Collective.
Chat with an Expert - Chats for Dads from Postpartum Support International.
“This is a place where dads, partners, extended family members or other support people, and professionals can find some answers and support from an expert – and from other men. You’ll find honest and compassionate talk about the adjustment to parenthood, information about how fatherhood can affect you, and some helpful advice.”
*Note: domestic violence in any form - physical, emotional, financial, or otherwise - is never ok. The postpartum period is a time when rates of domestic violence are known to increase, with some mothers experiencing abuse for the first time during this period. If you or someone you know is affected you can get immediate access to support through the National Domestic Violence Hotline - they can provide you with free, confidential 24/7 help and they have taken extra precaution to ensure that you can access their information safely with a quick-close web browser and information on clearing web history. Access their website at https://www.thehotline.org/ or text “START” to 88788 to get help now.
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