Dad’s handbook: A guide to the first 12 months

Most people know that depression related to pregnancy and birth can affect mothers, but it’s important to remember that fathers/partners are also at risk. Research shows that about 5 per cent of men experience depression in the year following the birth of their child. This risk increases if their partner is experiencing mental health problems. Many symptoms of depression and anxiety apply to men as well as women, although symptoms may vary from those experienced by mothers. For example, men may be more likely to experience symptoms such as frustration or irritability, increased anger and conflict with others, and increased drug or alcohol use. This beyondblue booklet raises awareness about issues associated with parenthood for fathers during the perinatal period.