There was a wonderful article in the Huffington Post recently about the fact that dads get postnatal depression too.
The heading of this article was “Why We Need to Be Talking about Postpartum Depression in Dads” and nothing highlighted this point more to me than the comments that followed this article.
Far from an outpouring of support for Dads doing it tough, this article was met with criticism and cynicism. Here’s just a selection of the comments that followed this article.
“Men suffer postpartum baby blues in direct correlation to their personal selfishness and overall level of intelligence.”
“If you know what that (postnatal depression) is, then you will no (sic) that only women can suffer from it.”
“There is no such thing as PPD for dads.”
“Post Partum Depression in women is usually caused by a hormonal imbalance. I’m not sure about what would cause it in men.”
Frankly, I was stunned, saddened, and furious at these statements. To me, they highlighted such a lack of understanding and social stigma around PND for Dads.
But it also made me think, with comments such as these flying around after a very sensible and thoughtful article on PND – is it any wonder why men shy away from admitting they’re struggling or seeking support?
So in an effort to bring some awareness to this topic, I’m writing today to de-bunk a couple of the “PND in Dads myths” for you.
Myth 1: Men can’t get postnatal depression
Truth: Postnatal depression in Dads is very real.
In fact, recent research from the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) found that 1 in 10 new Dads struggle with symptoms of postnatal depression.
AIFS researcher Dr Daryl Higgins said while men were less likely than women to experience depression, they were starting to realise how important the issue of PND for Dads truly is.
“The transition to parenthood appears to be a time of heightened risk of fathers developing depression, compared to the general adult male population,” Dr Higgins said.
“Some men struggle to come to terms with the reality of the pregnancy, their changing relationships and the potential economic consequences of starting a family.
“They may find it hard to adjust to the news of a pregnancy and the need to support their partner throughout the childbirth process leading to stress among expectant fathers.”
Myth 2: PND is all hormonal, which is why only women can get it
Truth: There is more to postnatal depression than hormones.
Certainly, hormonal disruptions and imbalance do play a part for many women with PND. But PND and depression, in general, have many causative factors, one of which is difficulty adjusting to changed circumstances – and that can impact both men and women. It’s not all about hormones. This is a common misconception but a potentially damaging one when it comes to supporting men through this difficult period.
As Post and Antenatal Depression Association (PANDA) CEO Terri Smith wrote recently on the PANDA website:
“Many dads and their families are unaware that new fathers can even experience PND. There is still a common misconception that postnatal depression is a hormonal condition that affects mums only. Shame and fear attached to admitting they are struggling with parenthood also prevents many men from speaking up.”
Myth 3: It’s not very common, it’s not a big problem
Truth: The numbers are climbing as we have increased awareness and research.
As Ms Smith noted above, many men are reluctant to speak up about PND due to shame or fear.
So while recent research states the rate of PND in Dads is 10pc, we don’t fully know the numbers. The lack of understanding of male PND, combined with the social stigma and limited contact with health professionals, are all barriers to fathers speaking up – and, more importantly, barriers to them getting support. The difficult truth is that the rate of PND in Dads could very well be much higher.
So, in short, yes, PND in Dads is very real. But there is support around if you know where to look.
If you are worried that your husband or partner might be struggling with depression, please encourage them to speak up and seek support.
For more information about postnatal depression in dads, visit one of these sites:
PANDA: www.panda.org.au/- HOW IS DAD GOING: www.howisdadgoing.org.au/
- BLACK DOG INSTITUTE: www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/public/depression/inpregnancypostnatal/fathers.cfm
1 Comment
My hubby got postnatal depression after both our children. It is very real and makes life very difficult for a new family. Definitely need more awareness and support. I’ve had mental health workers look at me with skepticism when I’ve mentioned it.