International Men’s Day 2024: Theme is Positive Male Role Models
International Men’s Day which falls on the 19 November was founded in 1999 by Dr Jerome Teelucksingh a history lecturer at University of the West Indies in Trinidad Tabago. The 2024 theme is ‘Positive role models’.
Building Healthy Communities
This year's theme, Positive Male Role Models, emphasises the importance of encouraging open discussions about men’s mental health and fostering supportive spaces where men can feel understood and empowered.
At Pippeta, we aim to highlight the unique journey of fatherhood, recognising that while becoming a new dad often brings joy and happiness, it can also come with challenges. Adjusting to new responsibilities, managing feeding routines, coping with sleep deprivation, and supporting both mum and baby can feel overwhelming. By addressing these emotions and experiences, we hope to inspire and support dads as they embrace their vital role within their families and communities. We are dedicated to creating meaningful online resources that provide fathers with the education and support they need as they navigate their new roles.
Look Out For Your Mates
At Pippeta we believe fatherhood is a journey best shared not only with your partner and other family members but with other dads in similar situations to share worries and advice with can become invaluable.
We encourage dads to look out for one another, knowing that the challenges of parenthood can feel lighter with support from other male role models. Pippeta aim to use our online spaces such as our social media channels to foster a space where dads can connect and find guidance. Follow us on social media here.
Paternal Postpartum Depression (PPD): How to spot the signs
Male postpartum depression can present differently from in females suffering from maternal postpartum depression, often leading to misunderstandings. It’s essential for not only dads themselves but also those around them to be aware of the signs, as early recognition can make a significant difference. These symptoms can sometimes be misattributed to stress, exhaustion, or unrelated issues, further delaying crucial support.
Common symptoms of male postnatal depression include:
- Irritability
- Anger
- Detachment from the family
- Risk-taking behaviours, including substance or alcohol use
- Physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomach aches
- Feeling easily stressed
By creating an environment of understanding and openness to talk, family members, friends, and healthcare professionals can better support new dads during this transitional time. Recognising and addressing these signs is key to ensuring their well-being and fostering a healthy family future.
Take Action and Stay Healthy
There are numerous channels and resources available specifically tailored to men, offering valuable insights, practical tips, and a supportive community. These platforms address everything from mental health and parenting advice to managing the challenges of fatherhood. Taking advantage of these resources can help fathers feel more equipped to navigate their journey, ensuring they are not alone in facing the ups and downs of parenthood.
At Pippeta, we strongly encourage fathers to take proactive steps for their own well-being, as prioritising self-care ultimately benefits their entire family. Whether it’s seeking advice, joining a support group, or simply opening up to someone they trust, small actions can make a big difference in maintaining a healthy mind and body.
Strengthening Bonds Through Supportive Feeding Solutions
At Pippeta, we are passionate about fostering meaningful connections and providing support for parents. Our innovative hands-free breast pumps, milk bottles, and storage solutions are designed to make feeding experiences smoother and more convenient. By simplifying these moments, we create opportunities for dads to get involved in the feeding process, promoting bonding time and shared responsibilities. Alongside our products, our online channels offer valuable resources to support parents on their journey, ensuring they have access to the guidance they need every step of the way.
Where Else Can Dad’s go for Support?
DadsNet is a parenting essential, offering advice, support and knowledge through a community of dads on practical parenting and fatherhood.
Mantenatal is a cutting-edge digital platform crafted by fathers and endorsed by respected NHS Midwives and Doula’s worldwide. Providing online courses, 1:1 sessions and online resources designed to make you the #bestdadyoucanbe.
Andys Man Club are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online. We want to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation. #itsokaytotalk
Tommy’s Support men who have experienced infant loss and may also need support.
Further reading:
Anxiety among fathers in the postnatal period: Links to depression, attachment insecurity and emotion regulation: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666915321001980
Postnatal depression in men:
Male Post Partum Depression: https://www.unitypoint.org/news-and-articles/male-postpartum-depression--unitypoint-health#:~:text=1%20in%2010%20men%20experience,loss%20of%20interest%20and%20guilt
