Archive · 3 Jul 2025
Dads Also Experience Postpartum Depression After Childbirth
Having a new baby can be a big change for everyone, including dads.
Sometimes, dads can feel sad, worried, or disconnected after a baby is born, just like moms.
This is called Paternal Postpartum Depression (PPD).
Dads may feel the same emotional toll as mothers due to changed responsibilities, sleep, and their sense of identity.
Many dads keep their feelings secret because they think they should be strong.
If a dad is struggling, it's important for them to talk about it and get help.
Talking about their feelings, like going to a support group can help them feel better.
Fathers can experience Paternal Postpartum Depression (PPD) after the birth of a child.
Symptoms include anxiety, sadness, disconnection, and changes in sleep patterns.
Men may struggle with PPD due to societal expectations and a lack of awareness.
Fathers may feel emotional isolation due to the baby's dependence on the mother.
Seeking support, normalizing conversations, and joining parenting groups can help fathers cope.
- Who
- New fathers.
- What
- Paternal Postpartum Depression (PPD) in fathers.
- When
- After the birth of a child.
- Where
- Not specified, but reported in locations like Hyderabad and Kerala.
- Why
- Due to emotional changes, new responsibilities, and societal expectations.
Societal Expectations
Individual Experience
Emotional Expression
Societal Expectations
Men are often expected to be strong and not express feelings.
Individual Experience
Fathers experience similar emotional tolls as mothers.
Role Expectations
Societal Expectations
Men may feel pressured to work and be providers, suppressing their emotions.
Individual Experience
Men, like women, need permission to express themselves.
- Condition
- Paternal Postpartum Depression (PPD)
- Symptoms
- Anxiety, sadness, and disconnection
- Affected
- New fathers
- Expert
- Sangeeta Manglani
- Expert
- Dr. P. Madhurima Reddy