Male Postpartum Depression: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

Symptoms of Male Postpartum Depression

Fathers with male postpartum depression symptoms that don’t resolve — for example, feeling sad for more than just a few days — could be dealing with something that profoundly impacts their life. When intense emotions persist for weeks (or longer), they can interfere with daily activities, including work responsibilities and bonding time with their newborns.

Anxiety about the responsibility of caring for a new baby or family can be overwhelming, leading some fathers to withdraw from loved ones or their partners, who are often adjusting to parenthood, too.

Other indications of male postpartum depression can include being easily irritated, being more aggressive than normal, exhibiting risk-taking behavior, having difficulty staying still, or being unable to focus on activities.

Emotional symptoms

The emotional signs associated with male postnatal depression can be quite similar to those experienced by women. They might include:

• Feelings of sadness
• Feeling hopeless
• Having excessive anxiety about becoming a parent
• Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyed
• More frequent than normal mood swings
• Feeling irritable without any apparent reason

Additionally, some new dads might grapple with feelings of worthlessness or guilt related to their role as a father.

Cognitive symptoms

Beyond emotional changes, paternal postnatal depression can also have cognitive indicators. For example, some men might have:

• Difficulty concentrating on tasks at hand
• Increased challenges completing everyday responsibilities
• Finding it hard to stay on top of work-related duties
• Feeling a constant sense of dread about their abilities as a father

It’s worth noting that everyone experiences depressive symptoms differently — some men may exhibit all of the above-mentioned male postpartum depression symptoms, while others might only show a few.

Postpartum Depression in Men vs. Women

Male postpartum depression is an under-recognized condition that’s not talked about enough. Many new dads feel sad, anxious, or worthless about their parenting skills. Because it’s more commonly associated with women, it’s important that we look at the differences between how it affects men and women differently. One of the most obvious differences is onset time — most women experience symptoms during months 2 and 3 post-birth. By contrast, men can have peak symptoms later in the first year after the baby is born.

Differences in symptoms

The symptoms of feeling depressed and changes in sleep or eating habits are shared across both genders experiencing postpartum depression. However, according to research, men may exhibit symptoms much more gradually than women do.

Studies also suggest men might have psychological and somatic symptoms including more irritability, fatigue, and nervousness. Some become angry and exhibit risk-taking behavior, as opposed to the more emotional depression response often exhibited in women.

These differences might be due to societal norms that discourage men from openly expressing feelings of sadness or vulnerability, leading them to instead have outward expressions of frustration and irritation.

Differences in causes

It’s widely accepted that hormonal fluctuations can trigger postpartum depression in women. Somewhat less known though, is that men can experience a testosterone hormone change after having a child, too.

Stressors like financial concerns related to providing for the family, overwhelming new responsibilities, and lack of sleep can also be factors that lead a new parent to develop paternal postnatal depression.

Differences in treatment

When it comes to male postpartum depression treatment approaches, there are differences between men and women.

Therapy sessions that are designed to address issues mothers face might not resonate in the same way with dads who are grappling with the challenges of new fatherhood. Fear around financially supporting a family, feeling disconnected from their partner, and worrying about not being a good dad can all require tailored treatments that consider gender-specific nuances for men experiencing paternal postnatal depression.

Causes of Male Postpartum Depression

In the journey to understanding male postpartum depression, we must delve into its root causes. No single source is responsible for male postnatal depression. The condition likely results from a combination of elements.

Hormonal changes

As noted, a significant contributor to paternal postnatal depression can be hormonal changes. Research has shown that men experience hormonal shifts during their partner’s pregnancy and after childbirth. These fluctuations, especially in decreased testosterone levels, can trigger mood swings, baby blues, and feelings such as anxiety or sadness.

Sleep deprivation

The birth of a new baby typically disrupts sleep patterns for both parents and the impact of a lack of sleep on mental health is important to consider. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to physical exhaustion and cognitive impairment, increasing susceptibility to conditions like major depression.

Social pressures and expectations

New fathers can feel overwhelmed by societal expectations around masculinity and fatherhood. The pressure associated with being the “perfect” provider while maintaining emotional availability for their partner could create added stress, both leading up to and following the birth.

Seeking Help and Treatment

The first step in overcoming postpartum depression is recognizing there is a problem. Men experiencing male postpartum depression symptoms should know what they’re experiencing isn’t uncommon, and that seeking professional help demonstrates strength, not weakness.

The importance of asking for help cannot be underestimated. According to research, postpartum depression in men is associated with several things, including:

• Higher risk of behavioral problems in children in preschool
• Less attention paid to their baby’s health
• Deteriorating marriage
• Family issues
• Increased mental and physical health issues in children

For these reasons, it’s important to learn how to treat postpartum depression.

Cultivating supportive environments

Fostering open communication within relationships is vital during this time. Partners should talk openly about each other’s emotional well-being — without judgment — to create a safe space where both feel comfortable expressing fears and anxieties linked with parenthood. This alone could do wonders to alleviate stressors associated with male postpartum depression.

This approach extends beyond intimate partnerships. Friends and family members need awareness about male PPD to provide emotional support. If you or a man you know needs help navigating new fatherhood, Talkspace offers accessible online therapy.

Therapy

Therapy can include one-on-one sessions with experienced therapists where feelings can be discussed without fear of being judged. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has proven effective in treating paternal mood disorders by helping dads recognize damaging thought patterns so they can shift them into positive ones.

Medication

A healthcare provider may recommend antidepressants as part of a male postpartum depression treatment plan, depending on the severity and personal history.

Support groups

In-person or online forums can be beneficial, where fathers facing similar challenges can share experiences and learn coping strategies.

Lifestyle changes

A therapist may suggest changes in diet, exercise routines, or sleep patterns that could positively impact symptoms associated with male postnatal depression. Promoting healthy habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can be essential in managing symptoms.

Find Support Through Talkspace

Male postpartum depression is much more common than most people think. It’s a significant mental health condition that can affect fathers in the first year after childbirth. Recognizing this condition and seeking professional help, despite societal norms or fears of judgment, can be the first step in returning to a healthy state where you feel good and are ready to take on the joys of fatherhood.

If you’re a new dad feeling overwhelmed by your emotions after childbirth, know you’re not alone. Online therapy platform Talkspace provides an accessible, affordable, and convenient solution for any dad seeking support. Licensed Talkspace therapists are trained to handle any mental health condition, including male postpartum depression.

Get professional assistance explicitly tailored for men experiencing postpartum depression. You don’t have to face this challenge alone — reach out to Talkspace today!