When you hear “postpartum depression,” you probably think of new moms, but here’s something not enough people are talking about: 1 in 10 dads also experience postpartum depression. That’s right– men’s postpartum depression is real, and it’s more common than we think.
In a recent episode of The Therapist Thrival Guide podcast, we explored this overlooked aspect of paternal mental health. Our hosts, Miranda Barker, LICSW, and Dr. Lucas Volini, LMFT sat down with guest Laura Lammar-Binder, MA to unpack the symptoms, stigma, and support systems that make all the difference for new fathers navigating this unexpected terrain.
What Is Men’s Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is typically associated with hormonal changes after giving birth. While men don’t go through the same biological process, they’re still vulnerable to the intense emotional upheaval that comes with becoming a parent. Lack of sleep, financial stress, identity shifts, relationship changes, and the pressure to “be strong” can all pile up—fast.
According to a 2020 meta-analysis published in JAMA Psychiatry, up to 8–10% of new fathers experience clinical symptoms of depression during the first year of their child’s life. There is also increased risk (the number can jump as high as 26%) when the mother is also struggling with postpartum depression.
And yet, most men don’t realize they’re even allowed to feel this way, let alone get help.
Signs of Postpartum Depression in Dads
While some symptoms overlap with traditional depression, men’s postpartum depression often shows up differently. Symptoms of depression in fathers include:
- Increased irritability or anger
- Withdrawal from family or social circles
- Risky behaviors or substance use
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Feelings of hopelessness or being “checked out”
- Trouble bonding with the baby
It’s also common for men to minimize or ignore these symptoms because they don’t align with traditional ideas of masculinity. Learn more about signs of postpartum depression for women at our other blog post.
Why Is Men’s Mental Health So Often Overlooked?
Historically, fatherhood has been tied to being the “provider” or “protector,” not the nurturer. Those outdated norms still hang around, and they can make it incredibly difficult for men to ask for help without feeling like they’re failing. But mental health challenges don’t discriminate by gender.
In our podcast conversation, Lucas and Laura emphasized how cultural expectations and internalized stigma often leave men feeling isolated. That silence is where depression grows. Breaking the silence is where healing starts.
The role of the modern dad is more emotionally involved and hands-on than ever before. That shift with father involvement is powerful, but it also comes with growing pains. As we redefine fatherhood, let’s make sure mental health is part of the conversation.
Therapy Can Help Postpartum Depression
Let’s get one thing straight: seeking help is not a weakness, it’s a sign of strength. And therapy isn’t just for a crisis. It can offer:
- A safe space to express difficult emotions without judgment
- Support when you are in the postpartum period or after the baby is born
- Tools to manage stress, sleep issues, and relationship changes
- Insight into your shifting identity as a father
- Validation that what you’re feeling is real and you’re not alone
Therapists trained in perinatal mental health (yes, that includes dads too) can help untangle these overwhelming feelings and build a support plan that fits your life and values.
Want to talk to someone who gets it? Find counseling for new parents here.
Support for New Dads: What Makes a Difference
Whether you’re a new father yourself or someone who cares about one, here’s how we can better support dads in this transition:
- Normalize the conversation. Just like we check in on new moms, let’s ask new dads how they are doing emotionally.
- Encourage connection. Peer groups, online forums, social support, and even podcasts can reduce isolation.
- Educate about symptoms. Knowing what to look for can help dads recognize when they need help.
- Model vulnerability. If you’re a father who’s been through it, sharing your story can be a lifeline to someone else.
- Provide actual support. Check out our blog post all about how to best support new parents.
Where to go from here
Men’s postpartum depression deserves attention, understanding, and support—not shame or silence. If you or someone you know is struggling, know that help is available. You don’t have to power through it alone.
To hear more about this topic, including personal insights and practical advice, tune in to our latest episode of The Therapist Thrival Guide. Together, we can normalize this conversation and build a culture where all parents—regardless of gender—feel seen, supported, and strong.
