Postnatal depression in men and non-birthing parents

• Postnatal depression can affect fathers and non-birthing parents as well as mums, with around 10% of men experiencing depression after the birth of a baby. 
• Symptoms may include low mood, anxiety, irritability, exhaustion and feeling disconnected from your partner or baby, often emerging months after the birth. 
• Postnatal depression is treatable, and support is available through the NHS, talking therapies, support groups and dedicated mental health charities. 

The arrival of a baby is often portrayed as one of the happiest moments in life. But for many dads and non-birthing parents, the reality can feel very different.  

Alongside joy and pride, there may be sadness, anxiety, overwhelm or a sense of disconnection that’s hard to explain - and even harder to admit. 

Postnatal depression, also known as postpartum depression, is not a failure, a weakness, or a sign that you’re a “bad” parent or partner. It’s a common and very real mental health condition that can affect fathers, non-birthing parents, and partners of all genders.  

Most importantly, it is treatable, and help is available. 

Can men, partners and non-birthing parents get postnatal depression? 

Yes -  absolutely. 

Research suggests that around 10% of new fathers experience postnatal depression, and the risk increases significantly if their partner is also experiencing postnatal depression. For many, symptoms don’t appear immediately.  

Postnatal depression in men most commonly peaks between three and six months after the birth, when the initial adrenaline has worn off and exhaustion, pressure, and responsibility set in. 

New dads and non-birthing parents can experience depression for many of the same reasons as new mums, including: 

• A sudden increase in responsibility 
• Major changes to routine, lifestyle and identity 
• Financial pressure 
• Strain on the relationship 
• Lack of sleep and ongoing exhaustion 
• Supporting a partner who is struggling with postnatal depression 

There may also be biological factors at play. Levels of hormones such as testosterone, oestrogen, cortisol, vasopressin, and prolactin can shift during the postnatal period, potentially increasing vulnerability to low mood and depression. 

While the causes are complex, one thing is clear: postpartum depression in men and non-birthing parents is normal, common, and not your fault. 

What are the signs of postnatal depression in dads, partners and non-birthing parents? 

Postnatal depression doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people feel overwhelmingly low, while others feel numb, irritable, or disconnected. Symptoms can develop gradually, making them easy to dismiss or explain away. 

Common emotional and mental symptoms include: 

• Feeling sad, low, or hopeless 
• Constant exhaustion or emotional numbness 
• Feeling unable to cope or overwhelmed by small tasks 
• Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy 
• Guilt or shame about not feeling happy 
• Worrying that you don’t love your baby “enough” 
• Anxiety, panic attacks, or constant worry 
• Irritability, frustration, anger, or cynicism 
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions 
• Feeling disconnected from your partner or baby 
• Thoughts about death or harming yourself or your baby 

Behavioural and physical symptoms can include: 

• Withdrawing from family life, work, or social situations 
• Changes in appetite (loss of appetite or binge eating) 
• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia 
• Increased alcohol or drug use 
• Relationship conflict 
• Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach problems, nausea, changes in weight, constipation, or diarrhoea 

If something doesn’t feel right - even if your experience doesn’t match a checklist - it’s important to talk to someone.  

Asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. You deserve care just as much as anyone else in your family.

Postnatal depression is treatable, and many people recover fully with the right support. 

If you’re concerned about your mental health, you can: 

• Speak to your GP, who can assess how you’re feeling and help you create a Mental Health Treatment Plan 
• Access Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions with a registered psychologist, counsellor, or mental health professional 
• Use online mental health screening tools 
• Contact national helplines for advice and support, even if you’re unsure where to start 

Treatment options may include: 

• Talking therapies or counselling 
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 
• Support groups, either online or in person 
• Medication, such as antidepressants, if appropriate 
• Self-help strategies, including lifestyle changes and peer support 

There is no single “right” treatment. What works best will depend on your symptoms, circumstances, and preferences. Your GP or mental health professional can help you explore the options and create a plan that works for you.

What support is available for postnatal depression in men and non-birthing parents? 

If you’re experiencing postnatal depression, anxiety or emotional distress after the birth of a baby, support is available across Australia - and you don’t have to face it alone. 

You can start by speaking to your GP, who can assess your mental health and help you access support. With a Mental Health Treatment Plan, you may be eligible for Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions. You can also access many services directly without a referral. 

Support options in Australia include: 

• Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and counselling 
• Guided self-help programmes and digital mental health tools 
• Treatment for common mental health concerns, including anxiety and depression 
• Peer support from other dads and non-birthing parents who understand what you’re going through 

There are also specialist organisations offering support specifically for men, dads and non-birthing parents: 

COPE

COPE: Centre of Perinatal Excellence is Australia's peak body in perinatal mental health.

PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) 

PANDA supports parents, including dads and partners, affected by perinatal anxiety and depression. 

• Helpline: 1300 726 306 
• Hours: Monday to Saturday 
• Website: Offers phone support, resources and referrals 

Beyond Blue 

Beyond Blue provides support for anxiety, depression and mental wellbeing for all Australians. 

• Phone: 1300 22 4636 
• Webchat: Available online 
• Resources: Information tailored for new parents and partners 

Lifeline 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or in crisis, Lifeline is available 24/7. 

• Call: 13 11 14 
• Text: 0477 13 11 14 

MensLine Australia 

MensLine offers professional support for men dealing with mental health challenges, relationships, and parenting stress.

• Phone: 1300 78 99 78 
• Online chat: Available 
• Available: 24/7 

SMS4dads 

SMS4dads is an Australian service that supports fathers via text message. You’ll receive practical information, emotional support and regular check-ins, including interactive “How’s it going?” messages. 

You’re not alone 

Postnatal depression in men, partners and non-birthing parents is far more common than many people realise - and far more treatable than it may feel right now. You don’t have to struggle in silence, and you don’t have to have all the answers. 

Reaching out, whether to a GP, a helpline, a support group or someone you trust, can be the first step towards feeling like yourself again.

Help is available - and you deserve it.