Knowledge | Can Men Develop Postpartum Depression? It Is Not Uncommon
When a baby arrives, attention often centers on the mother, and both the public and medical community commonly focus on women’s risk of postpartum depression. Growing research shows that fathers can also experience depression before or after the birth of a child.
A 2010 study found that 1 in 10 men experienced depression before or after their child’s birth, only slightly below the rate among women. A study reported in April 2024 also found that young fathers remained at elevated risk of depression during the first several years after the birth.
Although the medical community recognizes the condition, little is known about its exact mechanisms. “Research on postpartum depression in men has begun in recent years, but the subject has yet to enter public awareness,” said Michael W. O'Hara, professor of psychology at the University of Iowa.
It remains unclear whether postpartum depression in men is directly related to childbirth itself. Sleep deprivation, changing family roles, and sudden major responsibilities may all be important triggers.
Signs of postpartum depression in men: do not overlook these changes
If you are a new or expectant father, pay attention to how you are feeling. This affects not only your mental health but also your child’s safety. O’Hara noted that people with depression often have difficulty concentrating while caring for an infant, which may create safety risks.
Important signs include:
Disrupted sleep and eating: Do you often have insomnia or binge eat? Has your energy noticeably decreased?
Loss of interest: Do things you once enjoyed now seem uninteresting?
Mood changes: If low mood continues for more than several weeks, consider seeking professional help.
Coping strategies: sleep, communication, and self-awareness
O’Hara advised new fathers to establish a regular sleep schedule when possible. Although difficult, it is essential. Taking turns caring for the baby with a partner and taking short naps can help reduce mental strain.
Open communication is also important. “Although it is not easy, try to open up to your partner and talk about your feelings and stress,” he said.
Expert Q&A: how can men with a history of depression prepare?
Brian Jones, a 37-year-old neuroscience doctoral student in Portland, Oregon, asked:
“My wife and I plan to have a child, but I have a history of severe depression. Does that make me more likely to develop postpartum depression?”
Dr. Pamela S. Wiegartz, associate professor of psychology at Harvard Medical School and author of The Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety Workbook, responded:
“Your history of depression is a reason to remain alert. In addition to watching for changes in your mood and behavior after the baby is born, create a supportive environment: strengthen your social support system, build a cooperative relationship with your partner, and plan self-care strategies in advance.
Knowledge | Can Men Develop Postpartum Depression? It Is Not Uncommon
Knowledge | Can Men Develop Postpartum Depression? It Is Not Uncommon
When a baby arrives, attention often centers on the mother, and both the public and medical community commonly focus on women’s risk of postpartum depression. Growing research shows that fathers can also experience depression before or after the birth of a child.
A 2010 study found that 1 in 10 men experienced depression before or after their child’s birth, only slightly below the rate among women. A study reported in April 2024 also found that young fathers remained at elevated risk of depression during the first several years after the birth.
Although the medical community recognizes the condition, little is known about its exact mechanisms. “Research on postpartum depression in men has begun in recent years, but the subject has yet to enter public awareness,” said Michael W. O'Hara, professor of psychology at the University of Iowa.
It remains unclear whether postpartum depression in men is directly related to childbirth itself. Sleep deprivation, changing family roles, and sudden major responsibilities may all be important triggers.
Signs of postpartum depression in men: do not overlook these changes
If you are a new or expectant father, pay attention to how you are feeling. This affects not only your mental health but also your child’s safety. O’Hara noted that people with depression often have difficulty concentrating while caring for an infant, which may create safety risks.
Important signs include:
Disrupted sleep and eating: Do you often have insomnia or binge eat? Has your energy noticeably decreased?
Loss of interest: Do things you once enjoyed now seem uninteresting?
Mood changes: If low mood continues for more than several weeks, consider seeking professional help.
Coping strategies: sleep, communication, and self-awareness
O’Hara advised new fathers to establish a regular sleep schedule when possible. Although difficult, it is essential. Taking turns caring for the baby with a partner and taking short naps can help reduce mental strain.
Open communication is also important. “Although it is not easy, try to open up to your partner and talk about your feelings and stress,” he said.
Expert Q&A: how can men with a history of depression prepare?
Brian Jones, a 37-year-old neuroscience doctoral student in Portland, Oregon, asked:
“My wife and I plan to have a child, but I have a history of severe depression. Does that make me more likely to develop postpartum depression?”
Dr. Pamela S. Wiegartz, associate professor of psychology at Harvard Medical School and author of The Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety Workbook, responded:
“Your history of depression is a reason to remain alert. In addition to watching for changes in your mood and behavior after the baby is born, create a supportive environment: strengthen your social support system, build a cooperative relationship with your partner, and plan self-care strategies in advance.
Story source:
Collected online