Being a new parent comes with so many positive emotions—it also comes with some anxiety, uncertainty, and for some, fear. Medical professionals take steps to prepare 1 in 8 new mothers for postpartum depression. But 1 in 10 fathers can also experience postpartum depression that may go unrecognized or untreated. Dr. Chad Rodgers, pediatrician and AFMC’s chief medical officer, explains more about this quiet experience for new dads.
Peak Times, Symptoms, and Risk Factors
Depression can develop and peak anytime up to and after the first year postpartum. New mothers and fathers tend to experience depression at different times, however.
“Most depression in fathers will appear about 3–6 months after the baby is born,” Dr. Rodgers says. “So, later than mothers, who typically experience more symptoms in the first few weeks and months after the baby is born.”
Almost half the men who experienced postpartum depression reported that the mother of their baby also experienced some depression.
This period of depression could have several negative effects on behavior:
- Easily becoming angry or irritable
- Increased alcohol or drug use
- Low energy
- Less enjoyment in interests
- Poor concentration
- Lack of motivation
- Thoughts of suicide
Stress is part of any newborn experience, but certain factors could increase a father’s risk of developing one of these symptoms. Some families may be under greater financial stress due to having extra expenses for everyday necessities for the new baby. Pre-existing health conditions not properly diagnosed or treated may also increase a father’s risk of postpartum depression.
“Men often feel excluded from caring for their newborn and often don’t fully understand what their spouse or partner is experiencing in the postpartum period,” Dr. Rodgers says. “It is a big life change.”
Stigma and Societal Expectations Compound the Issue
We know that fathers play a very important role in a child's emotional and physical development. Yet, fathers have traditionally been excluded from their child’s care plan. Data indicates that, in opposite-sex households, women bear a significantly larger share of child duties compared to men. For instance, among working parents, women are more than four times as likely to miss work due to childcare needs than men.
In households with a non-working parent, a 2021 American Time Use Survey revealed that non-employed women spend about 47% more time on their childcare activities than their employed counterparts. In contrast, the difference for men is only about 13%, suggesting that societal expectations and norms heavily influence the distribution of childcare responsibilities.
There is a cultural thought that men are supposed to be strong and provide for their families. However, some fathers may not know their role or feel they have no role. It’s important for fathers to feel engaged and valued in raising their children.
“Finding ways to intentionally involve fathers helps them better define their roles and meet the needs of their partner and child,” Dr. Rodgers says.
“Ideally, men should try to address their mental health issues before becoming fathers,” Dr. Rodgers says. “But, often the stress of having a newborn can exacerbate long-standing issues. Allowing men to identify and express their emotions can help them and their children manage their emotions.”
Where to Turn
If you’re a father experiencing depression, you’re not alone—and help is available. The first step is reaching out to your primary care provider. They can talk with you about your symptoms, recommend a licensed mental health professional, or explore treatment options like therapy or medication that best meet your needs.
Support from people who care, whether it’s family, close friends, or other fathers, can also make a big difference. Sharing experiences might feel difficult, but it can be incredibly healing. “Sometimes, just asking for help opens the door for improvement,” Dr. Rodgers says.
If substance use is a concern, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and similar programs offer a space to connect with other men who understand the unique challenges of fatherhood and recovery. Getting help early—especially during the newborn phase and beyond—is a vital step in protecting the health and well-being of a father and his family.
There are many paths to feeling better, whether it’s talk therapy, support groups, medication, or some combination of all three. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength.
Helpful Resources
- Postpartum Support International – Resources for Dads
https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/resources-for-fathers/
Offers peer support, educational materials, and a free helpline specifically made for dads - Mental Health America – Men and Depression
https://www.mhanational.org/men-and-mental-health
Includes information on symptoms, stigma, and steps to get support - National Institute of Mental Health
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health
Offers research-backed information and treatment options for men dealing with mental health challenges - Alcoholics Anonymous
https://www.aa.org/find-aa
Find a local meeting and connect with other men facing substance use challenges - SAMHSA’s National Helpline (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
A free, confidential helpline available 24/7 for mental health and substance use support.
