Transition to fatherhood

Becoming a father is a life changing event. Try to attend antenatal classes if at all possible to prepare yourself for the challenges ahead!

You now have another person’s needs to consider. You may feel proud and fulfilled to become a father
You may feel your partner has less time for you and is focused only on meeting the baby’s needs
You are experiencing feelings you didn’t expect. Feelings of overwhelming love and the need to protect your new baby and your partner
Feeling tired and new priorities in life
Perhaps financial hardship due to loss of an income and cost of caring for a baby. This can cause more stress and anxiety for the family
Family and friends visiting more often to see the baby, or perhaps feeling isolated if family live far away
Your partner may be struggling in similar ways to adapt to motherhood. She may become tearful and low at times – needing more emotional support
Mixed feelings and emotions are very normal following the birth of a baby

New fathers can develop depression in the antenatal or postnatal period and this is not uncommon. Younger men and families with low incomes may be more vulnerable to depression. If your partner is depressed you are also more likely to suffer from depression.

No one can be sure why this happens, but life changing events can trigger these emotions. It is also known that if you have previously suffered from depression or emotional issues you will be more at risk of developing depression.

What can you do about it?

Admit there is something not right, this is the first step to getting better
Talk to your partner, a trusted friend or other family member about how you are feeling
See your GP to discuss how you feel and treatment options available
Self-help measures such as a healthy diet and regular exercise can be beneficial. Try to cut down on alcohol or avoid completely as this can lead to further depression
Focus on the positive aspects of being a new father
Get plenty of rest. Ask family and friends for practical help if needed
Share parenting with your partner. Support each other
Seek local support groups or websites that can help. Your local children’s centre may have a group for new fathers. Sharing being a new dad with other dads can help
Talk to your health visitor
Try and maintain hobbies and interests where possible, allowing for the changes in demands on your time now