The information on this page captures paternal mental health experiences in heterosexual relationships though we are aware that this is not inclusive of all people and their partnerships. Most research currently available is based on paternal experiences and even from what is available, we know there are many experiences that go unreported. For the purpose of highlighting the partner experience and education, we have pulled pieces that we feel are important. We feel that the experiences of all partners are valid and deserve just as much care and consideration as the individual birthing.

As we know, from a young age, boys are taught that strength means silence and vulnerability means weakness. By the time these boys become fathers, these lessons are deeply ingrained into the way they deal with life. Be the protector, not the one who needs protecting. Provide, don’t ask. Hold it together so no one knows that you are struggling. Researchers studying men’s mental health have found that a lot of fathers don’t seek support simply because they’ve internalized the idea that vulnerability equals weakness.

Paternal postpartum depression occurs among 10 percent of men between the first trimester and up to one year postpartum. When a pregnant woman or new mother develops psychiatric problems, her male partner is at higher risk of developing mental health problems. There is a 24-50 per cent increased risk of depression and a 10-17 per cent increased risk of anxiety. Expectant and new fathers with a psychiatric history are also at increased risk of developing mental health problems. Coping with role transitions, relationship transitions and the potential career and financial stress of having a child may contribute to risk.

The negative effects of untreated psychiatric disorders in expectant and new fathers on the individual and the family, and on child development, are similar to those of untreated disorders in pregnant and new mothers. Men may not show typical signs, symptoms or criteria for depression; instead, they may experience significant anger, aggression and addiction to express and cope with distress.

New fathers and partners can be supported by asking them about their experience of becoming a parent, exploring their feelings towards parenthood, educating them about perinatal mental health problems, and assessing and treating psychiatric symptoms.