Can fathers get postnatal depression?

Dads Post Natal DepressionPostnatal depression in dads: what you need to know

While postnatal depression is often associated with mothers, fathers can experience it too. Known as paternal postnatal depression (PPND), it can affect a father's mental health, relationships, confidence as a parent and overall family wellbeing.¹

How common is depression in new dads?

Postnatal depression in fathers is more common than many people realise.

Research suggests that approximately 1 in 10 fathers experience depression during the perinatal period.⁴

The risk may be substantially higher when a partner is also experiencing postnatal depression.

Research also suggests that symptoms often peak between three and six months after the birth of a baby, a time when sleep deprivation, parenting responsibilities, and family adjustments are often at their highest.²

Signs and symptoms

Paternal postnatal depression doesn't always look the same as maternal postnatal depression. Common signs include:

  • Irritability or anger

  • Anxiety or constant worry

  • Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope

  • Withdrawal from family and friends

  • Persistent low mood

  • Changes in sleep or appetite

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities

  • Increased alcohol or substance use

  • Working excessively to avoid home pressures

Research suggests fathers are more likely to show symptoms such as irritability, anger, withdrawal and risk-taking behaviours, which can make the condition harder to recognise.⁶

What causes paternal/postnatal depression?

There is no single cause. A combination of emotional, relationship, practical and biological factors may contribute, including:

  • Pressure to provide for and support the family

  • Concerns about being a good parent

  • Relationship and lifestyle changes after a baby arrives

  • Financial pressures

  • Sleep deprivation

  • Balancing work and family responsibilities

Emerging research also suggests fathers may experience hormonal changes during the transition to parenthood that can influence mood and behaviour.³

Why early support matters

Paternal postnatal depression can affect more than just fathers. It may impact:

  • Bonding and connection with a baby

  • Relationship satisfaction and family wellbeing

  • Children's emotional, behavioural and social development if left unaddressed⁷

The good news is that postnatal depression is treatable, and early intervention can improve outcomes for the entire family.

When should dads seek help?

Fathers should consider seeking support if they:

  • Feel persistently low, anxious, angry or overwhelmed

  • Notice symptoms lasting more than two weeks

  • Are withdrawing from family, friends or activities they usually enjoy

  • Are relying on alcohol or other substances to cope

  • Feel unable to manage daily responsibilities

A GP can provide a mental health assessment and discuss treatment options, including referral to a psychologist or counsellor.

Support available through Westfund

Westfund members may have access to a range of programs and services that can help, including:

To learn more about your eligibility, call 1300 937 838, check your cover details through Members Online or the Westfund app, or visit westfund.com.au.

Need immediate support?

If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact:

  • Lifeline: 13 11 14

  • Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

The information provided is general in nature and does not replace professional medical advice.

*Annual limits, waiting periods, eligibility criteria and cover conditions apply. Refer to your Policy Summary or check your Extras limits via Members Online or the Westfund app for full details.

References

  1. Garfield CF. What is paternal perinatal depression? JAMA. Available at: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2838504

  2. Paulson JF, Bazemore SD.Prenatal and postpartum depression in fathers and its association with maternal depression: a meta-analysis JAMA. 2010;303(19):1961-1969. Available at: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/185905

  3. Sad dads: paternal postpartum depression. Psychiatry (Edgmont). Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2922346/

  4. Dhanpal HN, Shil R.Prevalence of postnatal depression in fathers: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Health Allied Sci NU. 2024;14:453-459. Available at: https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/pdf/10.1055/s-0043-1777701.pdf

  5. Supporting new fathers: paternal mental health statistics. Available at: https://www.mmhla.org/articles/supporting-new-fathers-an-overview-of-paternal-mental-health-statistics-insights-and-resources

  6. Paternal perinatal depression and child development: systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Pediatrics. Available at: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2834898

Additional Support Resources

  • PANDA – Support for New Dads Practical information and support for expecting and new dads. National Helpline: 1300 726 306.

  • Pregnancy, Birth and Baby – Fathers and Depression Australian Government-supported information on postnatal depression and anxiety in fathers.

  • Raising Children Network – Antenatal and Postnatal Depression: Fathers and Non-Birthing Parents. Information on signs, symptoms and support options.

  • ForWhen – Perinatal Mental Health Support Helpline. Connects parents, carers and families with local mental health support services. Phone: 1300 24 23 22.