The role of clinicians
Up to 10% of new fathers experience perinatal depression, often accompanied by anxiety, but it often goes undiagnosed. Clinicians working with new parents can help by knowing the signs and symptoms and having a tool box of ways to support new fathers who are struggling after birth.
Risk factors
Before looking at the symptoms, it’s worth being aware of the risk factors that might make paternal perinatal depression more likely. Prior to birth, factors to be aware of include relationship problems, a history of depression, and the fact that the birth will be a couple’s first. Afterwards, an unsettled baby, lack of knowledge about how to support their partner, and maternal anxiety or depression are also influential risk factors.
Symptoms
Symptoms are most likely to manifest 3 to 6 months after birth and they can be different to those that show up for mothers. Most common symptoms include uncertainty or fear about their new role, irritability, withdrawal from family life (especially into work), insomnia, alcohol and drug abuse, and physical symptoms like weight loss, headaches, and digestive issues.
Ask questions
The most important thing any clinician interacting with a new father that they suspect of experiencing depression can do is to encourage them to talk. Ask how they are, and don’t allow the question to be too-easily dismissed. Ask about home-life, new patterns, and how they are finding the change.
Therapies
The most common way to treat perinatal depression is through counselling or therapy. Sometimes this will also include couple’s therapy so that the new parents can work through the issues that the birth has thrown up in their relationship. Education is also important – helping new fathers understand their role and finding ways to give them agency.
