Signs of Anxiety and Depression in Dads
You may be wondering, how do I know if a dad is struggling? To answer that question, we have compiled a list of some signs of anxiety or depression to look out for:
- Fear of being left alone with baby
- Suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm
- Excessive use of alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with the stress or escape
- Always feeling tired or exhausted
- Sleep problems unrelated to baby’s sleep schedule
- Increase/decrease in appetite
- Ongoing mood swings, irritability, moodiness
- Feelings of isolation and withdrawing from family, friends and loss of interest in activities
- Obsessive behaviours
- Constant worry, especially for baby’s health/wellbeing
- Difficulty focusing on activities, lowered self-confidence
- Persistent headaches
- Aggression
Next Steps
If you are a dad exhibiting these symptoms for 2+ weeks, or if your partner/friend/family member are exhibiting these signs, please inform your healthcare provider for help.
There are also many organisations around the world set up to help dads, some offering online options.
Click here for a comprehensive list of resources and organisations that can help.
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Originally published here.
Dr. Dawn Kingston, Canada’s leading expert on perinatal mental health and for over ten years, has been at the forefront of research on how to prevent postpartum depression. Her team has developed the HOPE App which is designed to significantly reduce prenatal anxiety and depression and directly support expectant mothers. They are studying it in a massive implementation study, one of the most ambitious projects of this type ever!
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