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Depression in Fathers
 Studies show that as many as 10 percent of fathers suffer from postpartum depression, particularly if the wife or partner is already suffering from pregnancy-related depression.
Risk factors for postpartum depression in fathers include:
- Older age
- First-time parent
- Small circle of friends
- Limited social interaction and support
- Limited education
- Concurrent stressful life events
- Poor relationship with wife or partner
What a Partner Can Do for Himself
- Make sure you have some time to yourself, apart from work and family; you may need more personal time to restore perspective.
- Try to keep up important hobbies and interests as much as possible; think about how you may share these hobbies and interests with your older children (e.g., taking an older child to a baseball game will support you and your child as well as give the mother some additional relief at home).
- Talk to close friends about your feelings and concerns.
- Be kind to yourself as well as understanding of your partner by setting reasonable expectations.
- Realize that helping your partner adjust to the new baby may increase the strength and intimacy of your marriage.
Information for Families |
Helping Mothers | Depression in Fathers
Helping Children Understand |
Suggestions for Family and Friends
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