Happy Father’s Day

PMADs affect 1 in 5 women and is the #1 complication in pregnancy and childbirth. But what we often don’t talk about is the 1 in 10 partners who also suffer.

Dad/ partner PMADs can look like:

1. Major depressive disorder

2. Postpartum depression/anxiety

3. It can also be subtle where symptoms can be brushed off as “stress from the new baby.” There are so many barriers to our partners sometimes displaying “overt” signs of suffering (see yesterday’s post) yet there can be something more happening under the surface. Here’s some warning sign examples:

– Withdrawing. Is your partner distant with you, the baby, family, friends?

– Apathy/loss of interest. Does it seem like your partner is smiling/laughing less, does not want to engage in things that typically make them happy?

-Hopelessness. Does your partner often vocalize “why bother,” “whatever,” “what’s it matter?” Do they focus on the negatives of the future?

– Agitation. Does your partner lose their temper easily, get “snippy,” insult, criticize? Do you feel like you walk on eggshells?

– Has your partner lost/gain significant weight without trying? Sleeping too much or too little? Started having migraines, stomachache, or other body pains?

– Does your partner ever appear checked out, lost in thoughts, trouble concentrating, or remembering?

These examples are signs we may want to have a conversation with our partner about how they’re feeling and if they would like to receive support. When I’m doubt, it’s always great to let every new parent know: it’s not your fault, you aren’t alone, and you will feel better with help.

In honor of Father’s Day, we want to bright light to postpartum mental health in dads and partners. Check out our graphics below with some facts about partner postpartum: