It may seem to be strange, however, the reality is that similar to new moms, dads also undergo postpartum depression after the birth of the baby. Studies reveal 1 in every 10 new fathers experience postpartum depression, anxiety, and worry as well. With the evolving concepts of medical science, the symptoms of paternal depression are becoming more evident, medially spotted, and administered after screening in facilities like Evan Bass Tennessee Men’s Clinic. For those who undergo such a phase and struggle to find a way to get treated, keep on reading
During the screening phase, it is found that depression in early fatherhood is associated with:
- Lesser attention and care to the newborn’s health and well-child visits
- Children having physical as well as mental health complications
- Chances of behavioral issues during the preschool stage of children
- About the upbringing of the baby where the marital relationship is poor
It is also found that just like mothers, paternal depression may onset before or following the baby’s birth. While most women manifest symptoms of postpartum depression after 4-6 weeks of delivery or even later, the would-be fathers are more vulnerable to facing this stage in the continuation of the first trimester of their partner. The medical data also demonstrates that postpartum depression is found maximum among men when the baby becomes 3-6 months old.
A host of factors that may be the underlying cause of developing prenatal depression in men includes
Hormones: As per Medical studies, new fathers undergo hormonal changes during as well as after the pregnancy of their spouse. The hormone in them that mainly declines is testosterone.
Genetic or personal history of depression: Any history of facing depression or any other psychological illness increases the changes of prenatal depression in the father.
Partner’s depression: the depressive phase of the partner also makes them upset as well.
Psychological change during parenthood: Becoming parents demands a considerable amount of coping abilities which could be overpowering for new mothers and fathers.
A feeling of being detached from the bonding of mom and baby: As per distinguished psychotherapists many new dads also desire to experience caring for the newborn by themselves, while a feeling comes in them of being ‘outside’ when the partner cares for the baby. The motherly bond often makes the mom incapable to comprehend that they’re not including the dad in the caring process, while dads expect to be with the infant for a little more time, too.
Lack of Sleep: Most new parents get deprived of sleep in the early developing stage of the baby. This lack of sleep also plays a role in developing depression and anxiety in them.
Some other factors that are likely to contribute to postpartum depression in dads include having a premature or colicky baby, financial struggle, problems with relationships, and lack of support in parenting which was accessible ages ago in a joint family.
Signs Of Paternal Depression In Men
New fathers who experience prenatal depression are found unwilling to share their feeling with others like women. Some common signs of postpartum depression in dads include
Psychological
- Anger, helplessness, violent behavior
- Increase in impulsive actions like consuming prescription drugs or intake of alcohol to get rid of worry.
- Lack of motivation, Irritability
Physical
- Headaches, digestion issues, muscle aches, Poor concentration
- Lack of concentration, getting isolated from relations
- Fatigue
Noteworthy, while many signs of new moms match new fathers, they rarely exhibit external emotional expressions, like crying.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Those who believe their loved one is facing paternal postpartum depression should assist the victim to take to therapists in clinics like Evan Bass Tennessee Men’s Clinic so that the person can get professional treatment. In general, the treatment process follows:
- Talk therapy
- Couples therapy, particularly when both parents are found depressed or the relationship among them is at risk
- Use of medication for physical, behavioral, and psychological wellbeing
- Alternative therapies include massage, workouts, yoga, etc.
The treatment method is designed based on the signs and symptoms involving emotional and behavioral issues on individual basis.