For those who have heard of postpartum depression, most understand it as a depressive illness that affects women in the weeks after they give birth, causing them to be unhappy and making it difficult for them to care for their new baby. Depression is often brought on by hormonal changes during pregnancy and the stress around a birth.
While postpartum depression is a severe struggle for 15% of women, doctors are also realizing that many men experience postpartum depression too. As many as 5 to 10% of new fathers also experience depression symptoms after the birth of their child.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression in Men
Having a new baby in the house is a significant transition. You are likely tired after many sleepless nights. You may be regretting how having a child has forced you to change your lifestyle. New responsibilities can be stressful. These changes can trigger depression, altering your mood and leaving you unable to connect with your family in the way you want.
Because men are more likely to externalize their emotions through actions, some symptoms you may experience if you have postpartum depression as a new farther include:
- Irritability
- Anger
- Outbursts
- Difficulty Sleeping
- High Heart Rate
- Headaches
- Appetite Changes
- Drug or Alcohol Use
With depression, these symptoms can go on for weeks. This will make you feel less than your best self, but it can also impact your child’s development and behavior as well. Getting the right treatment as a father can be beneficial for your entire family.
One of the significant challenges in dealing with postpartum depression in men and women is that many are unaware they have it. They may feel guilty or confused about their feelings of unhappiness when they think they should be excited about their baby. All of this can make it difficult to seek help.
At Aware Behavioral Health, we provide postpartum depression treatment for men and women. Whatever the cause of your depression, whether it is a new baby, another major life transition, or even if you are unsure of the cause, we can treat depression with compassion and without judgment. Contact us today to get help with your depression.
