Men can get postpartum depression, even though it’s less talked about. It’s very real and more common than many think.
What is paternal postpartum depression?
Paternal postpartum depression (PPD) refers to depressive symptoms experienced by fathers after the birth of a child, typically within the first year.
It doesn’t look exactly like maternal PPD, but the emotional toll can be just as serious.
How common is it?
The peak risk tends to be 3–6 months after birth.
Why does it happen?
While men don’t go through the same hormonal shifts as women, several biological, psychological, and social factors play a role:
- Hormonal changes
- Sleep deprivation
Lack of sleep is a major risk factor for depression in both parents.
- Relationship stress
Changes in the couple’s dynamic, reduced intimacy, or conflict can heighten emotional strain.
- Feeling excluded
Some fathers struggle with bonding, particularly if they feel sidelined during the early mother-infant focus.
- Financial or role pressure
Being the “provider” or adapting to a new identity can cause stress or feelings of inadequacy.
- History of mental health issues
- Lack of social support
Men often lack emotional outlets, with many not feeling comfortable expressing vulnerability, especially around fatherhood.
They’re more likely to feel isolated and overwhelmed if they don’t have a strong support network, like friends, family, or even father-focused support groups.
- Cultural expectations and gender norms
There’s still stigma around men expressing emotions like sadness or fear.
Societal pressure to “be strong,” “man up,” or “just provide” can make new dads suppress their struggles, which increases emotional strain.
Unfortunately, emotional suppression is linked with higher rates of depressive symptoms over time.
- Trauma around the birth experience
Men can be emotionally impacted by complicated births, emergency C-sections, or seeing their partner in pain.
Even if they weren’t physically affected, vicarious trauma can lead to symptoms of PTSD or depression if they felt helpless or excluded during the process.
- Unplanned or unwanted pregnancy
Men who weren’t ready or were conflicted about becoming fathers may feel guilt, resentment, or panic.
These emotions can feed into depression if they aren’t processed.
- Poor relationship with partner
Relationship dissatisfaction is one of the strongest predictors of paternal postpartum depression.
If the couple was already struggling before the baby, the added pressure and exhaustion of parenting can cause the situation to deteriorate further.
- Lack of bonding with the baby
Not all dads instantly bond with their baby.
This can cause feelings of inadequacy or failure.
If they feel disconnected or unsure how to engage, it can create a feedback loop of avoidance and guilt, contributing to depression.
- Major life changes
Postpartum isn’t just about the baby because it often comes alongside:
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- Financial stress or job changes.
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- Relocation.
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- Loss of free time, identity, or social connections.
Any major transition increases vulnerability to mood disorders.
- Lifestyle loss or identity crisis
Men often grieve the loss of their former life, such as freedom, spontaneity, hobbies, sleep, or time with friends.
This transition can trigger an existential crisis and depressive symptoms if fatherhood wasn’t clearly defined in their sense of identity.
- Feeling incompetent or “not good enough”
It’s common to feel like they don’t know what they’re doing, especially among first-time dads.
Shame and self-criticism can build up if they compare themselves to others or feel like they’re failing their family.
Symptoms to look for
Men’s depression can show up differently.
Instead of sadness or crying, it might manifest as:
- Irritability or anger.
- Withdrawal from family or friends.
- Risk-taking behaviors.
- Increased substance use.
- Feeling disconnected or numb.
- Workaholism.
- Anxiety or panic.
Why it matters
Untreated PPD in fathers can:
- Harm their mental health long-term.
- Affect bonding with the baby.
- Increase the danger of developmental issues in the child.
- Create a negative cycle if both parents are struggling.
What helps?
- Screening and talking about it
Doctors rarely screen dads, but they should. Opening up to a partner, therapist, or GP is key.
- Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often effective.
- Peer support
Talking to other dads can help normalize the experience.
- Lifestyle support
Exercise, better sleep, and time for self-care can ease symptoms.
- Medication
If needed, antidepressants can be prescribed (though that depends on the individual case and should be handled by a professional).
Final note
Postpartum depression isn’t just a “mom’s issue.”
It’s a family mental health issue, and spotting it in dads is a critical step toward better support and outcomes for the whole household.
Paternal postpartum depression is multifactorial, and while hormones and sleep play big roles, it’s often the interaction between psychological, relational, and social stressors that pushes some men into depression.
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