Skip to main content

What is male postpartum depression and how is it treated?

Some of the most exciting milestones in life bring much joy but can also create some chaos. Change is often good but not always easy. Such can be the case of having a child. You might be amazed at how adding one additional little person can alter a family’s dynamic. Nonetheless, many families experience some confusion, so you’re not alone. Adapting is gradual and fortunately, possible. Therefore, looking out for the symptoms of male postpartum depression proves to be a valuable undertaking since there is treatment out there, and you, your partner, and healthcare provider can find resources for help with childcare, mental health wellness, and even moral support. What are the effects and, more importantly, does PPD go away? Here are some answers.

Dads need support too. Thus, we’re going to look at the subject of male postpartum depression and hopefully shed a light on this condition so as to bring hope to many and to encourage fathers to reach out.

What is male postpartum depression?

According to Dr. Will Courtenay, a practicing psychologist and founding editor of the International Journal of Men’s Health, paternal postpartum depression, also known as male postpartum depression, is more common than some people might think. New dads often experience a case of nerves or the blues after their partners have given birth. This is only normal considering the sleep deprivation and the altering of routines and lifestyles. However, when those blues go beyond just feeling tired and turn into mood swings or feelings of depression or anxiety, then it’s time to have a candid discussion with a healthcare provider. And just like new moms, fathers can also experience postpartum depression at any point during the child’s first year.

Couple worrying about finances
Image used with permission by copyright holder

What causes male postpartum depression

Studies have pinpointed fluctuating hormone levels as a contributing factor to the onset of male postpartum depression. As Dr. Courtenay points out, men’s hormones undergo a change during their partner’s pregnancy and for some time after the birth has occurred. More specifically, testosterone levels decrease while estrogen, cortisol, and prolactin increase. This phenomenon brings about the father’s natural instinct to “want to stick around and bond with the baby.”  However, when you combine this biochemical ebb and flow with a lack of sleep, you also have alterations that occur in the brain, thus triggering depression or anxiety.

Other aspects of life can also bring a higher risk for developing male postpartum depression. These factors include:

  • A history of depression or anxiety
  • Financial and/or relationship issues
  • The premature birth of the baby or a congenital condition

Another situation that would need to be addressed immediately is one where both parents suffer from postpartum depression. For starters, a support system of family and friends would be helpful as the couple seeks therapy.

Male patient sitting across from therapist
Image used with permission by copyright holder

How is male postpartum depression treated?

Regarding treatment, talk therapy proves to be the most effective, and some practitioners might prescribe medication depending on the symptoms and their severity. Seeking out a support group can offer further insight and provide a safe space for sharing ideas and experiences.

Beyond therapy and medication, there are other avenues to take to alleviate symptoms and gradually bring back a sense of normalcy. For starters, getting adequate sleep and eating a balanced diet will stave off the hormone fluctuations. Also, going outside and doing some light exercise would help with vitamin D intake and the release of endorphins or the “feel good” hormones that balance out a person’s mood. Furthermore, getting into couple’s counseling and/or meeting with a financial advisor to plan a sound budget would lessen stress.

Does PPD go away?

With the proper therapy, more consistent sleep patterns, and close adherence to your provider’s recommendations, there is the hope of overcoming PPD.

Regardless, the most important step is to seek help and not to suffer in silence. Whereas society has placed high expectations on fathers, it’s important to remember that we’re all human. Any individual could use some support, self-care, and help from a medical professional at some time or other. So, paying attention to any impulsive behaviors, feelings of sadness or frustration, or any physical changes that can’t be explained away is vital to winning the battle against male postpartum depression along with seeking help. The best gift that a man can ever give his family is the gift of a healthy and happy partner and father.

Editors' Recommendations

Leslie Anderson
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Leslie Anderson is a freelance writer/writing coach from Roswell, N.M. She enjoys gardening, cooking, and helping students…
What you should (and shouldn’t) bring to a playdate
Don't be a playdate overpacker
Two little girls playing at a playground

 

Now that your kiddo is a toddler, it's time to start planning for those playdates. Playdates are an important part of your little guy or gal's development. It will help them when it's time for that first day of preschool. Once you've arranged a playgroup or outing with friends for your toddler and it's officially on the calendar, it's time to think about what to bring on a playdate. Whether you're meeting at the local playground or going over a friend's house to play, we’ve got a list of the essential stuff you won’t want to leave behind, and some you should.

Read more
7-Up: What’s the game and how to play it
Do you remember how to play 7-Up?
Five kids each giving a thumb-up

Raise your hand if you have played the 7-Up game in school? Hands should be shooting up all around because 7-Up is an elementary-school classroom classic. The popular school game is also known as Heads Up, 7-Up, Heads Down, Thumbs Down, or Thumbs Up, 7Up. Regardless of what you called the game as a kid, most parents are familiar with the format and the kiddos just can't get enough. The majority of elementary-school educators have led a round or two of 7-Up at some point in their teaching careers.

Seven-Up is also a summer camp staple on rainy days. It’s an easy game to get going and a fun way to keep a group of children occupied, especially when waiting or transitioning to another activity. To play, you need at least 14 kids, which is what makes it an ideal school or camp game. Seven-Up can certainly be played with less kids, but it's not as much fun. So, are you ready to get those thumbs up? Let's learn how to play Heads Up, 7-Up.

Read more
How to dress a newborn in the summer (day and night)
Worried about that precious skin in the blazing sun? Here's how to dress a newborn in summer so they stay safe
Baby boy in a crib.

You had your baby just in time to not have to be pregnant while melting in the summer heat, but now you're worried about your baby being out in that type of weather. Between the bright sun with its UV rays, the dropping temperatures at night, and the outdoor heat and humidity while taking a walk, your babe's summer wardrobe needs some planning. What are the best baby summer clothes to take your tot from day to night? Here are our top do's and don'ts for how to dress a newborn in summer.

When to dress your baby in layers

Read more