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Daddy Baby Blues?
Understanding How Postpartum Depression Affects New Dads
By Gina Roberts-Grey
The first step to help a parent overcome the gripping effects of PPD is realizing it is a treatable illness. Applauding individuals who actively seek treatment to take back control of their emotional lives lets fathers know they can confidently and securely pursue the treatment and tools to overcome PPD.
Encouraging a father to discuss his feelings and symptoms with his medical doctor or with a mental health expert will generate tremendous relief. "Receiving justification that he's not 'crazy' or 'shouldn't be feeling this way,' a man will develop clarity to what he's experiencing," says John Cunningham, a marriage and family therapist in Mt. Shasta, Calif. Combining therapy, family support and in some cases medication prescribed and monitored by a physician are the most popular methods available to parents struggling to overcome their baby blues.
Social support groups also provide a significant benefit to blue new dads. "Connecting with other fathers in social scenarios or formal support groups provides valuable support to aid in overcoming paternal PPD," says Cunningham. Recognizing that you're not alone or your feelings are understandable and explainable provides comfort for a father to begin treating his PPD.
Schmidt agrees with discussing the symptoms of PPD and their effects and hopes for a PPD-free future. The pressures of becoming a father are just a few of the many positive aspects support groups and social relationships afford fathers. "Although most men don't want to admit it, there are times when we all need a little helping support, and it was nice to know help is out there," says Schmidt.
"The safety and security of a support network can be vital for a father with PPD," says Cunningham. Mental health professionals and fathers like Schmidt also agree that establishing a relationship with a trusted member of clergy, health care professional or mental health expert helps fathers learn techniques to overcome their postpartum feelings and succeed as a competent and confident father.
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