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[HIMBA] Mental Health: Emotional wellbeing of fathers

Dad’s are providing 50% of the parenting role and are equally as important in a child’s life. The mental health of fathers is really important!

Common causes of poor mental health in fathers:

- Often Dad’s support their partner during pregnancy and birth and this can be a very emotive experience, especially if there have been complications.

- Dads often feel responsible to remain positive and supportive for their partner whilst also contacting friends and family members with updates. This can be tiring.

- Dad’s may not be feeding the baby at the beginning so finding an important role they can do to feel part of the parenting experience is really important ... this may be more exciting than just nappy changes! (e.g. baby massage/ bathing)

- Dad’s may not have time off work and will be trying to balance work life and home life… often on a lack of sleep

- There is a lot of support for the mother/baby but not on the father/baby

What can Dads do to look after their mental health after having a new baby?

- Be aware that sometimes you may feel down after having a baby and this is normal

- Make time for yourself, aware from work and your family

- Focus on what you enjoy about parenting, perhaps baby massage

- Try to protect time for your interests/hobbies

- Try not to adopt negative coping strategies such as working too hard, drinking too hard etc.

- Exercise regularly

- Have reasonable expectations of what you can achieve try not to be ‘super dad’

- Talk to friends and family

International resource for new dads: https://www.postpartum.net/news-and-blog/ifmhd/

Author: Abigail Laurie Registered Midwife and Registered Specialist Public Health Nurse, United Kingdom.