Everyone Deserves Support and Encouragement.

Dad's Postpartum

Men with postpartum depression suffer alone. Taken from; http://www.postpartummen.com/ 

Depression is not a weakness of character. 

Here are some of the things that research suggests may increase your chances of experiencing postpartum depression:

• A lack of sleep 
• Personal history of depression
• Poor relationship with spouse
• Relationship stress – with a partner or with in-laws
• Excessive stress about becoming a parent or father
• Nonstandard family (such as being unmarried or a stepfather)
• Poor social functioning
• A lack of support from others
• Economic problems or limited resources
• A sense of being excluded from the connection between the mother and baby

One thing we do know is that if your partner is depressed, there’s a good chance you are too.

Up to half of men whose partners have postpartum depression are depressed themselves.
Men often don’t acknowledge feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or guilt.

Researchers – and clinicians specializing in helping men – are also beginning to recognize symptoms of depression that seem to be unique to men.  

Symptoms of Men’s Depression

• Increased anger and conflict with others 
• Increased use of alcohol or other drugs
• Frustration or irritability
• Working constantly
• Violent behavior
• Losing weight without trying
• Isolation from family and friends
• Being easily stressed
• Impulsiveness and taking risks, like reckless driving
• Extramarital sex
• Feeling discouraged
• Increases in complaints about physical problems
• Ongoing physical symptoms, like headaches, digestion problems or pain 
• Problems with concentration and motivation
• Loss of interest in work, hobbies and sex
• Frustration or irritability
• Misuse of prescription medication
• Increased concerns about productivity and functioning at school or work
• Fatigue
• Experiencing conflict between how you think you should be as a man and how you actually are
• Thoughts of suicide

A man who’s depressed will only experience some of these symptoms.

There is more to come on this topic....