While most people have heard of Postpartum Depression (PPD) many do not realize the size and scope of the problem. PPD impacts 15% of new mothers, making it difficult to care for their baby and causes damage to other relationships. And it doesn’t just affect women. Men can get PPD, too. In fact, recent studies have show that 10% of new dads get Postpartum Depression.
Why are men affected? Postpartum Depression in women has been linked to traumatic birth experiences, hormonal changes, thyroid problems, Vitamin D deficiencies, previous history of mental illness, and many other factors. So how is it that men suffer from depression after the birth of a child?
While men may not experience the full spectrum of biological and hormonal changes or other factors that impact women, they are experiencing a change in their role and a major life change. The pressure to be a good dad, the desire to succeed at being a father, and the dramatic life change can bring on PPD in men. Remember, dads also experience the lack of sleep, the frustration of trying to soothe a fussy baby, and the fear of making a mistake.
Some of the symptoms of depression in men include:
• Irritability
• Increased alcohol consumption
• Anger
• Depressed mood
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Over-working
• Suicidal thoughts
• Physical complaints such as stomach problems or headaches
• Difficulty concentrating
While there is much to be learned about PPD in men, one thing is sure: It is important to get help. Studies have shown that untreated PPD in men leads to marital problems, increased fighting in the home, and decreased bonding with the baby.
In general, men are less likely to get help than women. Unfortunately, it is challenging for men to seek treatment. Many healthcare providers do not realize that PPD can impact men. Further, the stigma for men is greater than for women. Yet, it is so important to get help.
If you or someone you love is struggling, there is hope; for women and men.
Here are some resources:
www.postpartummen.com
www.postpartum.net
And if you’re in Kent County, Michigan:
www.dadsgrow.com
This is part III in a series.
Gretchen Johnson
Umm…no. This perhaps is an adjustment disorder. DSM-specifier–postpartum is the onset for major depression…or not. No need to further pathologize.
It is correct that the DSM-IV tr diagnose for postpartum depression is Major Depressive Disorder, Postpartum Onset. However, “ppd” in men has been cited in research studies numerous times. 20 studies from 1980-2002 were found in scholarly journals which discussed men’s depression in the first year postpartum. In the past year, numerous articles have been published discussed ppd in men. Unfortunately, many men go untreated not only due to many providers not understanding or diagnosing it in men, but because of the stigma around it. What differs in the case of PPD for men is that the birth of the child, the change in the role as a father, the change in relationship with the partner/spouse and many other factors specific to becoming a new father can trigger an episode of depression. Here is a link to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association that discussed fathers and postpartum depression. http://www.china-obgyn.net/UploadFiles/Article_UploadFiles/201005/2010052021360215.pdf
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