While most people associate postpartum depression (PPD) with new mothers, men can also experience a drop in mood and other depressive symptoms during the postpartum period.
Research shows that, in addition to the typical stressors associated with becoming a new parent, non-birthing parents can also experience hormonal changes that can impact their mental health.
PPD is a clinical mood condition that often requires professional mental health support. If you suspect that you or your co-parent is living with symptoms of PPD, know that there is effective treatment available to help you manage your mood and keep you and your baby safe.
Most of the time, when we hear the term “postpartum depression,” it refers to the clinical mood condition that can affect new mothers or birthing parents. But in reality, parents of all genders can experience periods of low mood after a baby is born. Men or non-birthing parents can and do experience postpartum depression (PPD). Some research estimates that it affects up to 10% of fathers during the first six months of their new child’s life.
This condition is more acute than the “baby blues,” and it can impact a parent’s mood in ways that make it difficult to care for themselves and their baby. Fortunately, there is growing awareness around PPD in men, and learning more about the signs, symptoms, and available treatments can help you feel more empowered to ask for help.
Postpartum depression symptoms in non-birthing parents
PPD in mothers or birthing parents is caused, in part, by the hormonal shifts that naturally occur throughout pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period. But we now know that non-birthing parents can also experience hormonal fluctuations after a baby is born. These biochemical changes, along with other factors, can cause parents of all genders to experience emotional, behavioral, and cognitive PPD symptoms, such as:
Mood swings
Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
Anger, irritability, or impulsivity
Problems with sleep
Eating too much or too little
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
Trouble concentrating
Isolating yourself from family and friends
Digestive problems
Substance misuse
Low motivation
Aches and pains that don’t have another explanation
Negative thoughts and anxiety
Thoughts of harming yourself or others*
*But if you or someone you care about needs support right away, please contact the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 from any phone for 24/7 crisis support. Postpartum Support International also offers several free, confidential lines for emergency and non-emergency support.
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Causes and risk factors
We don’t yet know all the underlying causes of PPD in men and non-birthing parents. But research shows that there are certain biological, environmental, and lifestyle factors that might put you at greater risk of developing the condition, including:
Having a partner who also has PPD
Lack of sleep
Having other mental health conditions like anxiety or depression
Relationship issues between you and your partner
Feeling inadequate or like you can’t meet the expectations of parenthood
Financial strain
Worrying about all the changes a new baby brings to your household and family structure
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How long does male postpartum depression last?
No matter their gender, the amount of time that PPD affects new parents varies from one person to the next. However, we know that there is effective treatment for male PPD and that early detection is key. The sooner you can identify concerning mood changes in yourself or your partner, the sooner you can seek treatment that will bring you relief from your symptoms.
Keep in mind that even under the best circumstances, the early days with a new baby can be an exciting but difficult time. Try to have patience with yourself and your co-parent as you navigate this transition. In addition to seeking professional help for PPD, there are also some things you can do for yourself to support your mental health during this time, including:
Eat right. Prioritize nutrition and trying to eat a balanced diet.
Move your body. Move your body in ways you enjoy, even if you don’t have time for a full workout.
Rest when you can. Ask your partner or another person if they can cover you for a night so that you can rest, and fit in naps whenever you can.
Avoid mood-reducing activities. Steer clear of behaviors or habits that tend to make your mood worse, like drinking, gambling, or anything that puts you or someone else at risk.
Talk it out. Find someone you can talk to who understands what you’re going through and will listen without judgment.
Be kind to yourself. Have patience with yourself and remember that having a new baby is a major adjustment that will take some time to get used to.
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Supporting a partner with postpartum depression
If a partner or new parent in your life is living with symptoms of postpartum depression, know that there are some things you can do to support them.
Listen without judgment. First and foremost, let them know that you’re there to listen to whatever they want to share about their experience without judgment.
Help out with tasks. Take some tasks off of their to-do list, and be specific about what you can offer. For example, instead of saying “What can I do to help?” ask something like “Would you like me to watch the baby while you shower?” or “I’m going to make a grocery list and do some shopping. What do you need?”
Provide encouragement. Be encouraging, and remind them that what they’re doing is hard. Tell them that they’re capable and a great parent, and this stage won’t last forever.
Encourage self-care. Give them whatever support they need to make time for self-care. Remind them that taking care of themselves will help them be the best parent they can be.
Lead with patience. If they don’t seem like themselves, be patient with them. Keep in mind that they’ve recently undergone a lot of change and they’re still adjusting to this “new normal” in many ways.
Offer affection and affirmations. Offer affection in the form of hugs or verbal affirmations like “I’m so proud of you.” Let the birthing partner (and their doctor) decide when they’re ready to resume sexual activity.
Remind them that help is available. If needed, support them in seeking professional help. This could be helping them find the right therapist, providing transportation to appointments, or keeping an eye on the baby during their sessions.
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Postpartum depression (PPD) is often associated with new moms, but non-birthing people can experience it too. It’s normal for men to have symptoms like low mood, fatigue, and trouble concentrating in the weeks and months following birth.
If you, your partner, or another new parent in your life is experiencing PPD, know that help is available. With the right support, you can learn to manage symptoms, create healthier habits, and feel more present with your family.
At Rula, we’re here to help you feel better. Rula makes it easy to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who takes your insurance. That way, you don’t have to choose between great care and a price you can afford.
Rula patients pay about $15 per session with insurance, and 93% say they feel better after getting care through Rula. We have 21,000+ providers, and appointments are available as soon as tomorrow. We’re here to help you take the next step — wherever you are in your mental health journey.
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Liz Talago
Liz Talago, M.ed. is a mental health professional turned content writer and strategist based in the Detroit metro area. As an independent consultant for mental health organizations, Liz creates meaningful connections between brands and their audiences through strategic storytelling. Liz is known for championing diverse perspectives within the mental health industry and translating bold ideas into inspiring, affirming digital experiences.
In her free time, you can find her hiking with her two German Shepherds, puttering around her dahlia garden, or spending time with her family.
Adrienne Duhon, LCSW
Adrienne has worked in the mental health field for over 10 years across a variety of settings including hospitals, nursing homes, and telehealth. In her current role as a Clinical Quality Specialist at Rula, she supports therapists by providing clinical guidance, documentation support, and peer consultation, with a focus on improving quality of care. She is trained in CBT and specializes in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Adrienne is passionate about mental health because she believes everyone deserves access to compassionate, evidence-based care that helps them thrive and feel supported. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and taking long walks with her dog.
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