Partner Postpartum Depression

Partner Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is defined as an episode of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) soon after the birth of a child. While it’s more common in the birthing person, it can also occur with partners or fathers.

While postpartum depression, on the whole, is not talked about enough, postpartum depression in partners lands even lower on the topic popularity scale. The amount of effort required in raising a baby, the late nights, the lack of personal time, and decreased amount of attention from your partner can all take a toll on the mental health of new parents. 

Risk Factors for Developing Partner Postpartum Depression

You or your partner might be at risk for developing postpartum depression if: 

• You have a personal history of depressive illnesses in the past such as dysthymia, or bipolar disorder

• You have a family history of depressive illnesses

• Difficult socio-economic situations

• History of substance abuse disorder or alcoholism

• Hormonal changes

That being said, any partner can develop postpartum depression up to a year after the birth of their child. 

Symptoms of Partner Postpartum Depression

While there are no defined criteria to diagnose postpartum depression in partners, here are some symptoms commonly noticed:

• Irritability

• Low moods

• Lack of appetite

• Crying spells

• Lack of interest in activities, especially those relating to the baby

• Indecisiveness

• Restricted range of emotions

• The feeling of not doing enough for the baby

• Withdrawing from social interaction or acting distant with the partner or family

5 Ways to Help 

Here are 5 ways to help someone going through partner postpartum depression: 

1. Acknowledge It

The first and foremost thing to do is to acknowledge it. A lot of partners tend to laugh at the idea or are quick to dismiss it. But in truth, there is nothing laughable or shameful about depression. It is just as valid for a partner to suffer from it.

2. Open Up About It

Secondly, confide in your significant other and tell them how you’re feeling. Keeping things to yourself and letting them brew inside you won’t help anyone. You might feel like you’re burdening them by bringing up personal stuff while they’re overburdened, but in truth, they care about you and probably noticed things were amiss. Talking to them will calm their worries too.

3. Consider Getting Professional Help

It might help to talk to a professional if you feel comfortable. They have experience in dealing with similar symptoms and might be the best qualified to help you.

4. Avoid Unhealthy Habits

Turning to unhealthy habits such as smoking and drinking are common coping techniques. But in reality, they can often do more harm than good. Avoid these habits at all costs, seek professional help if you need to.

5. Adopt Healthy Habits

You know the drill, a healthy body equals a healthy mind. Try to adopt healthier habits such as exercising, eating nutritious foods, and getting a good night’s sleep whenever you can.

Lastly, just know that you’re not alone in your suffering and that there are avenues out there to help you overcome it. In fact, a good start might be hiring a postpartum doula who can be there to help take the load off of you and your partner during those first few weeks so you both can focus on healing and getting to know your little one. And just remember to seek professional help when you need it so you can be the best partner and parent you can be!

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