Paternal depression
Paternal depression is a psychological disorder derived from parental depression. Paternal depression affects the mood of men; fathers and caregivers in particular. 'Father' may refer to the biological father, foster parent, social parent, step-parent or simply the carer of the child. This mood disorder exhibits symptoms similar to postpartum depression (PPD) including anxiety, insomnia, irritability, consistent breakdown and crying episodes, and low energy. This may negatively impact family relationships and the upbringing of children. Parents diagnosed with parental depression often experience increased stress and anxiety levels during early pregnancy, labor and postpartum. Those with parental depression may have developed it early on but some are diagnosed later on from when the child is a toddler up until a young adult.
| Paternal depression | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Postpartum depression, Postnatal depression |
| Specialty | Psychiatry |
| Symptoms | Anxiety, extreme sadness, substance abuse, irritability, violence, risky behavior, anger attacks |
| Complications | Relationships with partner and children |
| Usual onset | Early pregnancy to years postpartum |
| Causes | Unclear |
| Risk factors | Prior mental disorder and drug abuse, bipolar disorder, family history of depression, psychological stress, upholding multiple social roles, lack of support |
| Diagnostic method | Based on severity of symptoms |
| Differential diagnosis | Baby blues |
| Treatment | Counselling, medications, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) |
| Medication | Antidepressants |
The causes of paternal depression are unclear; however, previous experiences of mental disorders and family history can contribute to the development of paternal depression. Other factors including stress overload, sleep deprivation and unhappy relationships with one's partner or children may also affect its prevalence. Although symptoms of feeling down, baby blues and a lack of sleep are common amongst new parents, a diagnosis of depression is appropriate when symptoms are severe and ongoing.
Most health literature provides studies and research on maternal depression and women with postnatal depression. However, there is limited information about men and mental illness. Modern society and culture have changed social stigma of men with mental illness due to changes in gender role perspectives.