News: Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month: Shedding Light on Men’s Postpartum Mental Health

June is a time for both celebrating fathers and bringing awareness to men’s mental health. For many, the birth of a new child can be both a joyful and stressful experience, especially for new parents. Oftentimes, Postpartum depression (PPD) is the quiet storm affecting these new families early in their parenthood experiences. However, much of the information available focuses on PPD’s effects on mothers, but little attention is paid to its effect on fathers. In fact, PPD in fathers often goes unrecognized and untreated despite approximately 10% of fathers exhibiting signs of PPD—with significantly higher rates reported during the 3-6 month postpartum period.1 However, emerging research has brought father’s mental health to light. Many studies are now focusing on the risks, symptoms, and effects of PPD in fathers, as well as its overall impact on family health. 

Identifying Risk Factors: 
There are several risk factors contributing to the development of PPD in fathers, also known as paternal PPD: 

• History of Depression: Fathers with a history of depression may have a higher risk of developing PPD. Additionally, maternal PPD is also positively correlated with the development of paternal PPD in fathers.1
• Sleep Deprivation: It is quite common for new parents to spend a significant amount of time caring for their newborn, which often results in a lack of sleep. Sleep deprivation is a significant factor in causing maternal depression, and may also increase the risk in fathers as well.1,2
• Hormonal Changes: Research suggests that fathers go through several hormonal changes during the postpartum period that contribute to parent-child bonding. However, these changes may also be biological risk factors for developing paternal PPD.1,3
• Environmental Stressors: With the new responsibilities and financial stressors of parenthood, the pressure of being a provider intensifies, leading to increased stress and higher risk of developing paternal PPD. Additionally, fathers lacking in social support or feeling excluded from parent-child bonding may also have a higher risk of developing paternal PPD.2,3

These risks highlight the need for increased awareness and social support for fathers. With new awareness and a heightened call for action, researchers and mental health experts can take a closer look at the fatherhood experience and better support families in need. 

Symptoms and Finding Support: 
Knowing and being able to identify the symptoms of paternal PPD is important for early preventive measures and support. Although some symptoms overlap between both parents, fathers may experience symptoms that can differ from maternal PPD. 

Common symptoms of PPD in fathers can include the following: 

• Decreased interest in work or favorite activities
• Withdrawing or distancing oneself from family and friends, emotional blunting
• Fatigue or difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of frustration or irritability
• Feeling sad, overwhelmed, or hopeless

Seeking support is essential for fathers experiencing mental health struggles for both themselves and their families. If paternal PPD is left untreated, it can negatively affect parenting behaviors, worsen parent-child bonding, strain close relationships, and could lead to negative behavioral issues such as substance abuse.2 Additionally, studies show infants of fathers with depression often have increased levels of distress, aggression, and a higher risk of developing emotional and behavioral problems later in life.1,3  By encouraging early preventive measures and destigmatizing mental health support, families can create environments for their children that are more supportive for healthier family dynamics. 

How We Can Help: 
DePaul’s Infant Empowerment & Education Program (DIEEP) plays a significant role in bringing awareness to the mental health of both parents. As a program focused on health education and community outreach, we provide information and resources that highlight infant nutrition, family wellbeing, and mental health for mothers and fathers. Thus, we support families holistically—addressing social determinants of health that lead to better long-term outcomes for families across the New Orleans community. 

If you or someone you know are experiencing symptoms of PPD, you are encouraged to reach out to the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA. Please note that fathers are also welcome to reach out to this free, 24/7 service line, in addition to mothers. You can also visit our website here to learn more about DIEEP and its initiatives. 

Sources: 
Paulson JF, Bazemore SD. Prenatal and Postpartum Depression in Fathers and Its Association With Maternal Depression: A Meta-analysis. JAMA. 2010;303(19):1961–1969. doi:10.1001/jama.2010.605 

What to Know About Male Postpartum Depression. Cleveland Clinic. (2025, June 26). What to know about male postpartum depression. Health Essentials.

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/yes-postpartum-depression-in-men-is-very-real 
Kim P, Swain JE. Sad dads: paternal postpartum depression. Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2007 Feb;4(2):35-47. PMID: 20805898; PMCID: PMC2922346.