Can fathers and partners get postnatal depression?
Regardless of how your mental health issues are labelled as a partner, you are not alone – and you deserve support.
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Can partners experience perinatal mental health problems?
If you are the partner of someone who is pregnant or has recently given birth, you might feel that the focus should be on their health. However, partners can also develop mental health problems during this period. This page provides information that can help.
Some doctors might say you’re experiencing postnatal or paternal mental health issues, as your mental health has been affected by becoming a parent. However, others might argue that the term ‘postnatal’ applies only to those who have given birth.
Regardless of how your mental health issues are labelled as a partner, you are not alone – and you deserve support.
Why might partners experience mental health issues?
There are many reasons why you might experience mental health issues after your partner has had a baby. Some partners mention the following challenges affecting their mental health:
- Not feeling as supported or appreciated as your partner
- Financial pressures
- Lack of sleep
- Extra responsibilities, such as additional housework or looking after multiple children
- Returning to work when you don’t feel ready
- A disparity between expectations and reality
- A changing relationship with your partner
You might also find that there is no obvious cause.
Your partner may also experience mental health issues during pregnancy or after giving birth, which could impact your mental health.
Support for Partners
At times, you may feel like all support is directed towards your partner and not you. It can be easy to ignore your own needs as a result.
This can make it difficult to reach out for help, making you feel like you just need to carry on.
However, your mental health is important too. You deserve understanding and support, and there are ways to get help.
Speak to Someone About Your Mental Health
You can always talk to your GP about your mental health, both during your partner’s pregnancy and after your baby is born. Your health visitor is also available to support you and your partner.
Your doctor can refer you to local support services or talking therapies. They may also prescribe medication for your mental health.
It might also help to talk to other partners who understand what you’re going through. Some NHS trusts have local support groups you can join. Other organisations have forums or social media groups where you can connect and share with others.
Get support
Talk with a trained professional about your thoughts and feelings with out free counselling and private counselling service for people over the age of 18.