Can Men Get Postnatal Depression? Understanding Fatherhood, Mental Health and Supporting New Mums
By Lauryn Middleton
Let's face it Mamma's when a baby arrives, most of the focus naturally falls on the mother’s recovery and the baby’s needs. But as awareness grows around mental health, so does our understanding that postnatal depression can affect dads too.
This International Men’s Day, it’s only right for us to highlight the emotional journey of dads, the real challenges they face, and the part they play in supporting their partners especially during breastfeeding.
We at Pippeta know better than anyone that becoming a parent changes everything. And while many people assume that only mothers experience postnatal depression, research shows that around one in ten fathers also struggle with postnatal mental health difficulties in the months following birth.
Why Men Can Experience Postnatal Depression
Although men don’t go through the physical process of childbirth, they experience huge emotional and lifestyle changes that can trigger depression. For many fathers, the early months are marked by:
- Significant sleep deprivation
- A sudden increase in responsibility
- More pressure to provide financially
- Changes in their relationship dynamic
- A shift in identity as they navigate new expectations
- Worries about how to support their partner, particularly with breastfeeding
Modern neuroscience also shows that involved fathers experience hormonal changes and even brain structure shifts, just like mothers do. These changes can make men more attuned to caregiving but they can also increase vulnerability to mood disorders.
The Hidden Nature of Male Postnatal Depression
One of the reasons male postnatal depression often goes unnoticed is that men’s symptoms can be different and more subtle. Many fathers don’t recognise what they’re experiencing as depression, and because men are statistically less likely to seek help, it can remain undiagnosed.
Common symptoms in fathers include:
- Feeling trapped or overwhelmed
- Irritability, anger, or cynicism
- Withdrawal from partner, baby, or social life
- Avoiding hands-on caregiving
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Low confidence in their ability to parent
- Changes in appetite or sleep
- Headaches or stomach issues
- Increased alcohol or substance use
- Conflict with their partner or family
The risk is highest between three and six months after birth, when the initial excitement fades and the demands of parenting intensify.
Risk Factors for Postnatal Depression in Men
Fathers are more likely to develop postnatal depression if they:
- Have a history of depression
- Have a partner also experiencing postnatal depression
- Lack emotional or practical support
- Face financial pressures
- Are struggling within their relationship
- Have a baby with additional needs
- Are in poor physical health
Because these factors often build gradually, many dads don’t realise how much stress they’re carrying until they feel completely overwhelmed.
The Impact on the Whole Family
When a father experiences postnatal depression, the effects extend beyond him. Studies show that children whose fathers were depressed in their first year of life may experience behavioural or emotional challenges later on. Supporting dads isn’t just a kindness it strengthens the entire family unit.
How Fathers Can Support Mum (Especially With Breastfeeding) While Looking After Their Own Mental Health
Breastfeeding can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it’s also demanding physically and emotionally. Fathers play an essential role in helping mums feel supported, confident, and cared for. Here’s how dads can help, without burning themselves out:
1. Share the Night-Time Load
Even if mum is breastfeeding, dads can:
- Settle the baby after feeds
- Bring baby to mum
- Handle nappy changes
- Take early-morning shifts
Small acts reduce stress for mum while giving dad valuable bonding time.
2. Become Breastfeeding-Literate
Understanding common breastfeeding challenges helps dads feel empowered, not helpless. Learn about:
- Latching
- Expressing and storing milk
- Pump schedules
- Cluster feeding
This knowledge allows dads to offer meaningful support rather than standing on the sidelines. You can find articles on most of these topics within our breastfeeding blog section here.
Further to this, consider doing some infant feeding courses prior to babies arrival.
3. Check in With Yourself
Fathers need rest, connection, and emotional space too. Give yourself or your partner permission to:
- Take short breaks
- Share your worries
- Do activities that help you decompress
Good mental health makes you a better partner and parent.
4. Talk Openly
Speak honestly with your partner, friends and family about how you’re feeling and encourage her to do the same. Postpartum life requires teamwork, not suffering in silence.
5. Seek Support Early
Support might include speaking to a GP, using a mental health screening tool, or connecting with other dads. Many communities now offer father-specific groups that create safe, judgement-free spaces for men to share their experiences and learn from others. A great space for this is our friends over at Mantenatal.
This International Men’s Day, Let’s Talk About Fathers Too
Men’s mental health matters especially during the transition to fatherhood. Postnatal depression in men is real, valid and treatable. By recognising the signs early and encouraging open conversation, we can support dads just as they support their families.
Supporting Families Is at the Heart of Pippeta
As a mum-founded family run brand, Pippeta is built on supporting parents through every stage of the feeding journey. Our award-winning breast pumps and breastfeeding essentials are designed to reduce stress, build confidence and make feeding easier for mums and for the partners supporting them.
This International Men’s Day, let’s celebrate fathers, acknowledge their challenges, and ensure no dad feels alone in the early months of parenthood.
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