Dads Mental Health – Getting Support for Yourself
New dads can also suffer from postnatal depression following the birth of a baby. This is more likely to happen if your partner is experiencing depression, you have had previous depression, or you are a first time dad.
- You are more likely to recover quickly if you acknowledge the problem. Consider asking for support or practical help from family, friends or consulting your GPRemember as a new dad it is important that you look after your own physical and emotional wellbeing, so that you can look after your family as well as yourself.
For more details read our leaflet Why am I not happy?
Some Simple Do’s and Don’ts
This is not your fault but you need to take some responsibility towards getting yourself well again. Here are some things that you can and should do immediately.
Do:
- Believe that you will get better and recognise that you are unwell and not a failure.
- Take every opportunity to get plenty of rest/sleep.
- Accept any offers of help graciously.
- Get enough nourishment.
- Have a daily treat.
- Get some exercise e.g. a walk round the park with the pram.
- Find time to talk and have some fun with your partner.
Remember you don’t have to:
- Try and be superhuman … if something doesn’t get done there is always tomorrow.
- Blame yourself or your partner.
- Make any major decisions e.g. moving house or job.
If you think that you, or someone you know, may have depression use the Screening and Assessment-Tools. The assessment will not provide a diagnosis but it will help you decide if you need to see a health professional.
