Postnatal depression in fathers: a quiet struggle?

Abstract

The mental health of fathers is now receiving more attention as a part of a national policy designed to address mens' mental health. Fatherhood can be a challenging period in a man's life and some men are at risk of developing depression leading up to and following the birth of their child. It is estimated that, on average, 8% of new fathers are diagnosed with paternal postnatal depression. It has been reported that this condition is not well understood and that support for these fathers is limited. This paper examines literature on the emerging evidence for paternal postnatal depression, its prevalence, risk factors and how new fathers, who are susceptible to this condition, can be better supported in health care settings.