Mental Health Experts Discuss Symptoms, Solutions for Struggling Fathers
by SHAYLYNN MARKS
When most people hear “postpartum depression,” they think of mothers. But a growing body of research and firsthand insight from mental health professionals shows that new fathers are also susceptible.
Postpartum depression in men is underdiagnosed and often goes unrecognized. Experts say it’s time to change that.
“The woman and child become the center of attention, and the father is often treated like an afterthought,” says Dr. Louisana Louis, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and founder of Prestige Health and Wellness with offices in Lakeland and Valrico. “But the man is impacted at a very deep level…he’s also going through a major transition.”
According to Louis, postpartum depression in fathers is both real and more widespread than most people realize.
“One in 10 new dads experience postpartum depression, but most of them go untreated,” she says. “That lets you know that it happens more frequently than we think.”
Teresa Even, manager of Behavioral Health Services at BayCare Health System and licensed mental health counselor with more than three decades of experience, says deeply rooted cultural expectations often discourage men from opening up.
“Men have been more reluctant to share what their feelings are about many things,” Even says. “That’s a challenge for men — mental health is farther down that trail of feeling even more stigmatized.”
What both experts agree on is simple: Fathers matter and their mental health deserves to be recognized, supported, and protected.
Potential Causes
While emotional strain is expected with a new baby, mental health experts say that several biological and situational factors can increase the likelihood of paternal postpartum depression.
“Men also have hormone shifts,” Louis explains. “Their testosterone may drop, their prolactin levels may change, and the cortisol level rises. All of these hormones affect their mood, their bonding, and their stress response.”
Even noted that both nature and nurture play a role. “Genetics play a big part in mental health. If you come from a family where you were more predisposed for mood disorders, you are going to be more predisposed naturally,” she said. “Then, add in what your dad was like, what messages you got growing up.”
Sleep deprivation, financial pressure, and relationship strain only add to the mental load. “The mother’s focus is the child and healing,” Louis says. “Someone’s going to feel left out — even though that’s not what’s happening.”
Recognizing the Signs
Postpartum depression in men doesn’t always look like sadness or tears.
“The symptoms are different for men,” Louis explains. “They may show irritability, anger, aggression. Some experience fatigue or headaches. You can also see they’re disconnected from the baby, which often leads to risk-taking behaviors.”
According to Louis, these signs are easy to miss because they don’t fit the typical narrative of depression.
“A lot of men’s primary concern is providing,” she says. “So sometimes they overwork or shut down emotionally to cope.”
Even agrees. “Men on the whole tend to have more overt reactions — anger, irritability, sometimes substance use. Avoidance. Not being involved,” she adds.
For loved ones trying to support a new dad, paying attention is key.
“I think the first thing you would note is are they withdrawing? Are they bonding with the child?” she says. “We need to be in tune.”
Catching the signs early can help fathers get support before they reach a breaking point.
When and Where to Get Help
When is the right time to seek professional support?
“If it’s a constant down for a few weeks and you’re not seeing any more ups — that’s definitely a sign,” Even says.
Louis points out the benefits of early intervention.
“You don’t have to seek therapy because something is wrong,” she says. “When you feel overwhelmed and can’t figure out which way to go — that’s when to talk to someone.”
Supporting Fathers at Home
Families can also help by normalizing these conversations.
“Step in and give the parents breaks,” Louis suggests. “Watch the baby for an hour. Let them go on a mindful walk. Have a date night so they can talk.”
Even advises partners to listen without judgment. “Be available and open to hearing what the dad is going to say. Don’t belittle him or minimize his feelings. Sometimes just being heard can help you get through.”
She also recommends using simple tools to open up discussion. “People — especially men — do well with a rating scale,” she says. “Asking, ‘On a scale of one to 10, how are you today?’ can tell you a lot.”
Looking Ahead with Care
To protect their mental health proactively, Louis encourages new fathers to view therapy not as a last resort but a resource for growth.
“If it’s important for your relationship to have the best possible transition, get started early,” she says. “Find someone you connect with. Many therapists offer a free consultation.”
Even agrees on the importance of communication and planning ahead.
“Sit down with your partner before the baby comes. Ask, ‘What do you expect from me?’ ‘What do I expect from you?’ If you don’t agree, there’s still time to get your expectations in line.”
Fathers deserve the same care they’re so often expected to give, and it starts with paying attention.