Paternal post-natal depression

LIKE new mothers, some fathers ­—though to a lesser extent — also experience significant changes in their life after the birth of their children. Strangely enough, these stresses are sometimes similar to what women go through with post-partum depression. In men this is known as paternal post-natal depression.

According to obstetrician-gynaecologist Dr Anna-Kay Taylor Christmas, up to five per cent of fathers develop depressive symptoms in the year following their baby’s birth.

Though there is not much research surrounding paternal post-natal depression, most studies indicate that the causes are varied, and range from the presence of marital problems before the birth of the baby to mental health issues like obsessive compulsive disorder.

Dr Taylor Christmas said some risk factors for men include being depressed in the past, having poor support (social, emotional, etc), drug or alcohol abuse, a sick infant, financial stressors, and/or a difficult birth experience for the mother.

“The symptoms in men include feeling sad, depressed, anxious, irritable or ashamed most of the time. It can also cause feelings of isolation from friends, family and even a disconnection from the new baby. Sufferers also complain of feeling overwhelmed, unable to cope, and lose the ability to enjoy activities that used to bring them joy and pleasure. There can even be physical manifestations such as aches and pains, insomnia, loss of appetite, fluctuations in weight, and loss of interest in sex.”

If diagnosed, it means that five or more of the symptoms noted would have occurred in the space of two weeks, including a loss of interest in all activities.

Dr Taylor Christmas urged new fathers experiencing similar symptoms for more than two weeks to consult a counsellor or doctor, who can help them deal with their problems.

“The need for early treatment is twofold: the father needs quick relief of his symptoms and to learn adequate coping mechanisms so that he can function normally with his family, but there are also proven long-term negative effects on the babies as well,” she said. “In one study, depression in fathers during the post-natal period was associated with adverse emotional and behavioural outcomes in children aged three to five years, and an increased risk of conduct problems in boys.”

Dr Taylor Christmas added that if you notice your partner experiencing some of these symptoms or suspect that he may be depressed after the birth of your child, encourage him to seek help from a licensed mental health professional, or at the very least a trusted general practitioner.

“Therapy is effective and life-changing. It should not be delayed out of fear of appearing less manly,” she advised.