Some dads can also suffer post-partum depression

With newborn twin daughters, sleep was a rare occurrence for our friend, whom we’ll call Kevin.

But as mornings became harder, it wasn’t just new-parent fatigue. Kevin felt listless. He stopped attending meetings of the local historical recreation society, his favourite hobby. Some days he couldn’t find the motivation to get out of bed.

Kevin’s daughters are teenagers now. Over a decade later, he tells us he’s still not sure how he muddled through that difficult time.

Kevin was likely experiencing the baby blues.

Post-partum depression has long been recognized as a risk for new mothers. The parenting books and videos rarely, if ever, warn dad — even though his risk is nearly as high.

Post-partum depression, a mental illness that can follow the birth of a child, affects about 10 per cent of new dads, and 10 to 15 per cent of new moms, according to Isabel Sadowski, a researcher with the University of British Columbia’s psychiatry department.

Symptoms vary, with men more prone to anger or substance abuse, and can last up to two years.

The baby blues can also strike same-sex couples and adoptive parents.

On Father’s Day, we want to talk about new dads.

Once baby arrives, all parents experience similar triggers for depression — increased stress and lifestyle changes.

There is also emerging evidence that men undergo hormonal changes after the birth of their children that can impact their mood.

But the biggest factor for men is their partner’s mental health.

If his partner experiences depression, the risk for dad more than

Post-partum depression, a mental illness that can follow the birth of a child, affects about 10 per cent of new dads, and 10 to 15 per cent of new moms.”

doubles, according to Sadowski.

New dads are also vulnerable to severe anxiety, panic attacks and obsessive behaviours.

Before and after pregnancies, mom and baby get most of the medical attention, and in cases where mom has delivered the baby, there’s good reason for that.

But it also means dad is less likely to have contact with health care professionals who might spot the signs of mental health issues.

Even doctors don’t always realize they should be checking on dad’s mental health, too, says Sadowski.

“Women don’t even get screened enough. For dads, it’s worse.”

Men are also less likely to seek help, Sadowski adds. “There are a lot of dads suffering from depression and not getting the treatment they need.”

Dr. Shaila Misri, a clinical professor of psychiatry, tells us her department at UBC runs therapy groups for fathers, but notes that programs like this are rare in Canada.

The best Father’s Day gift for new dads? Ask him how he’s doing.

“Offer non-judgmental support. Let him know he’s in a safe space to share his feelings,” recommends Sadowski.

If he talks about sad moods, feelings of hopelessness, problems concentrating or finding motivation for daily life, urge him to get help.

Father’s Day is an opportunity to do more than sell neckties and greeting cards. It’s a chance to promote mental health for the dads in our lives. Craig and Marc Kielburger are the co-founders of the WE movement, which includes WE Charity, ME to