- 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 and non-birthing parents.
Most importantly, it is treatable, and help is available.
Can men 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 men and partners, 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 partners is normal, common, and not your fault.
What are the signs of postnatal depression in dads 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.
How is postnatal depression treated?
Postnatal depression is treatable, and many people recover fully with the right support.
If you’re concerned about your mental health, you can:
- Use the NHS online screening tools
- Speak to your GP
- Call NHS 111 for advice
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 the UK - and you don’t have to face it alone.
There are also specialist organisations offering support specifically for men, dads and non-birthing parents:
MMHA
The Maternal Mental Health Alliance (MMHA) is an award-winning charity and network of over 130 member organisations, parents, and clinicians dedicated to ensuring all families impacted by perinatal mental health problems have access to high-quality, compassionate care and support.
Mind
Mind provides information and support for anyone experiencing mental health difficulties.
- Infoline: 0300 123 3393 (9am–6pm, Monday to Friday)
- Text: 86463
- Email: info@mind.org.uk
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
CALM supports men who are struggling or in crisis.
- Phone: 0800 58 58 58
- Webchat: Available online
PANDAS Dads
PANDAS Dads offer a private support group for dads experiencing anxiety or depression, or those supporting someone with perinatal mental illness.
Samaritans
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or in crisis, Samaritans are available day or night.
- Call: 116 123
SMS4dads
SMS4dads sends supportive messages, information and links to online services for dads. Every three weeks, you’ll receive an interactive “How’s it going?” message to check in.
Andy’s Man Club
Andy’s Man Club is a safe space for men to talk about mental health through weekly meetings across the UK.
You’re not alone
Postnatal depression in men 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.
Sources
- Postpartum Depression Statistics (2025) | PPD Research & Data
- Postnatal depression in men | Tommy's
- Postnatal depression in dads and co-parents: 10 things you should know | NCT
- Postpartum Mood Disorders & Baby Blues – Dads Adventure
- Dad Matters | Mental Health for Dads: During Pregnancy and the Perinatal Period
