When we think of postpartum depression, we usually picture a new mom who is struggling.

But dads can get postpartum depression too. It’s actually more common than people think.

New dads experience major life changes, sleep deprivation, and the pressure of new responsibilities just like we do as moms.

But for a lot of reasons, their struggles often go unseen.

If you’re a mom reading this, supporting your partner through this can be really hard.

It’s harder to identify and a lot of times harder for men to talk about or acknowledge.

Let’s look at this together….

What is Postpartum Depression in Dads?

Postpartum depression (PPD) in dads, sometimes called paternal postpartum depression looks a little different than it does for moms.

For dads, it can show up as:

Irritability or anger
Feeling distant or detached
Overworking or avoiding home
Anxiety or panic attacks
Lack of interest in things they used to like to do
Fatigue and sleep issues
Increased alcohol use
Feeling overwhelmed

Those symptoms are not just "new dad stress." If these feelings last for more than 2 weeks and impact daily life then you want to pay attention.

New dad yawning while feeding baby her bottle

Why Do Dads Experience Postpartum Depression?

There’s no single cause of PPD in dads just like there is no one reason for moms.

It’s a mix of biological, emotional, and situational factors.

Here are a few common triggers:

Hormonal changes: Yes, dads experience shifts in hormones too! Testosterone levels can drop, while cortisol (the stress hormone) rises.
Lack of sleep: Newborns don’t care if you’re tired. And sleep deprivation impacts everyone in the house.
Financial pressure: Providing for a new baby can add a lot of stress financially to dads.
Relationship changes: Your relationship with your partner shifts a ton after having a baby. This can be hard for both of you.
History of mental health issues: If a dad has struggled with anxiety or depression before then he’s at higher risk.

How Common is Postpartum Depression in Dads?

You might be surprised that about 1 in 10 new dads experience postpartum depression.

For moms, that number is closer to 1 in 5-7.

So while dads experience it a little less frequently, it’s not rare.

And the impact is very real.

Signs to Watch For

Here are some early warning signs to pay attention to:

Sudden mood swings or anger
Pulling away from you and the baby
Spending a lot of time at work or on hobbies (as a way to escape)
Talking about feeling trapped or hopeless
Increased use of alcohol or other substances

How to Support Your Partner

Supporting a partner through postpartum depression isn’t always easy.

You’re probably exhausted, too. And you may even be going through postpartum depression (a dad’s risk increases a lot if the mom is also experiencing PPD).

But there are ways to help him – and yourself – get through this.

1. Acknowledge His Feelings

Just like moms, dads need to feel seen and heard.

Let him know it’s okay to feel overwhelmed.

Remind him that he’s not alone and that his feelings are valid.

2. Encourage Him to Talk

Men are often taught to "tough it out."

But talking helps.

Encourage him to open up to you, a friend, or a therapist.

If he’s not ready to talk, suggest writing things down.

3. Share the Load

Sometimes dads feel pressure to "do it all."

Remind him that you’re in this together.

Divide tasks and support each other.

4. Help Him Get Support

Finding a therapist who understands postpartum depression in dads can be huge to his recovery.

There are also online communities and support groups for new fathers that are helpful.

5. Take Care of Yourself, Too

It’s hard to support someone else when you’re running on empty.

Make sure you’re getting the help and rest you need.

Ask for help from others when you need it!

New father with postpartum depression holding infant

Breaking the Stigma

One reason postpartum depression in dads isn’t talked about very much is the stigma to it.

Society tells men to "man up.”

But mental health struggles don’t care about gender roles.

The more we normalize this, then the easier it becomes for dads to get the help they need.

What Happens If Postpartum Depression in Dads Goes Untreated?

Untreated PPD in dads can negatively impact the whole entire family.

It can hurt your relationship and impact the bond between dad and baby.

In severe cases, it can lead to long-term mental health struggles.

But the good news is: Postpartum depression is treatable.

With support, therapy, and sometimes medication, dads can recover.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum depression in dads is a real thing.

It’s not a sign of weakness or something you are doing wrong.

It doesn’t mean he doesn’t love his family. It just means he needs a little more support – just like moms do.

Let’s be there for each other. Talk about the hard stuff.

And let’s make sure dads know they’re not alone in this journey.

With love and solidarity,

Postpartum Depression in Dads: Yes, It’s Real

What is Postpartum Depression in Dads?

Why Do Dads Experience Postpartum Depression?