Partner mental health

As much as mother’s can be affected by the life changing event of pregnancy, birth and a baby, parenthood for the partner can also bring a variety of feelings which can include depression and/or anxiety.

This is sometimes referred to as paternal depression.

Having a baby can change the dynamic of your relationship and increase financial pressure. A lack of sleep and perhaps the need to look after more children can all contribute to poor mental health. 

Some factors can make it more likely for partners to suffer with their mental health are:

• A lack of social networks
• Other life events happening such as moving house, a bereavement, or losing your job
• Living in poverty
• Having experienced abuse in your childhood

Signs/symptoms of paternal depression:

• Isolating yourself from family life and social situations
• Inability to make decisions
• A feeling of frustration, negativity and anger
• Feeling hostile or indifferent to your partner and/or baby
• Difficulty in sleeping
• Using alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism
• Headaches, toothache, nausea, indigestion and a change in appetite
• A feeling of guilt that your partner went through birth
• A feeling of hopelessness and dread about the future 

If you think you may be suffering with paternal depression and/or anxiety, you deserve support. A good place to start is a visit to your GP. Below are some useful support groups.

• PANDAS Dads – information for men with paternal depression
• National Childbirth Trust – has links to support groups in local areas
• The Birth Trauma Association – support and information for men whose partners had a traumatic birth
• The Fatherhood Institute – an organisation which is research based to improve policies for fathers
• Pink Parents – support for gay and lesbian parents