Postpartum Depression resources for fathers, friends, and family

Information about paternal postpartum depression and how friends and family can support a new parent who has postpartum depression.

Resources and information for fathers

Paternal postpartum depression can affect about 1 in 10 fathers worldwide. New fathers experience little sleep and new and increasing responsibilities that may cause stress and anxiety, all of which can lead to depression.

Fathers or partners with paternal postpartum depression experience a range of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes including sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that interfere with day-to-day life and routines.

If you are experiencing any signs and symptoms of postpartum depression, seek help by contacting your healthcare provider.

• Postpartum Health Alliance for Dads

Paternal postpartum depression treatment options

Counseling

Therapy can be an effective way to address the way parents are feeling, thinking, and acting. Women struggling with postpartum depression can benefit from learning new ways to cope with stress, and how to manage their feelings. Involving significant others (for example, spouses, family) in treatment can also help improve communication and enlist their support and help during difficult times. Counseling may be done on an individual basis, or may be offered in a group through a formal group therapy program.

• Mental Health Resources

Medication

Antidepressants may be effective in treating postpartum depression. For more information about medication use contact your healthcare provider.

Support groups

Support groups can be helpful in a variety of ways, including:

• Helping moms to make connections with other moms struggling with postpartum depression
• Learning helpful and practical coping skills from other parents
• Reduces a sense of isolation

Find support.

Supplemental supports

In addition to therapy and/or medication, many men benefit from supplemental support such as:

• Yoga
• Exercise
• Meditation

It is always important to mention all treatments, whether prescribed or not, with your healthcare providers.

For friends and family

Learn how you can support a new parent who has postpartum depression

Have you noticed a change in personality or behavior of a loved one who is a new parent?

Do you suspect that she or he has postpartum depression and wondering how you can help?

Provided below are resources on information and tips for how fathers/partners and family/friends can support a new parent who has postpartum depression. For more information about signs and symptoms, visit General Information about PPD on the DPH website.