Approximately one in ten men suffer from parental postpartum depression post the birth of their child. While not many are aware of this disorder, it is very much real and significant. And the fact that so many new and expecting dads worldwide go through it makes the issue a prominent public-health concern. However, it has been largely overlooked by society. This condition is beyond the normal stress of having a baby.
The symptoms of PPD are severe and can impact the mental well-being of the individual. Persistent irritability, agitation, anger, loss of sex drive, the feeling of worthlessness, etc., are some of the prominent postpartum depression signs symptoms that men go through. All these symptoms can affect parenting and can cause strain in relationships. Therefore, it is important to get timely treatment upon experiencing the symptoms.
Cadabam’s Hospital is one of the reliable medical institutions to get comprehensive care for dads and mums who are suffering from parental postpartum depression. The hospital has been providing excellent treatment for many mental illnesses for over three decades. Therefore, you can expect to get a personalized care plan to help you get back to your healthy life. So, if you’re experiencing postpartum depression signs, get in touch with the team to know more about the treatment plan. Call us at +91 97414 76476.
What Is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a type of depression experienced by a mother or a father after having their first baby. The individual starts to feel early indications of postpartum depression symptoms during the first three months.
Particularly, in men, it often goes undiagnosed — and there are many reasons for it. In the Indian scenario especially - the concept of ''mard ko dard nahi hota'' is still prevalent. Secondly, after the baby is born, all the attention goes to the baby and the mother, and little or no focus is given on the father's health or well-being. Also, the symptoms of postpartum depression may seem like everyday stress; hence it is difficult to spot.
As mentioned earlier, our society holds the myth: Men can handle tough situations! In reality, men are more prone to suffer stress! So how to recognize postpartum depression in men?
The Signs Of Postpartum Depression In Men
Following are the postpartum depression signs and symptoms:
- Mood swings -The person often experiences a drastic change in the mood from low to high and vice-versa. At times they feel happy, and all of a sudden, they feel moody.
- Change in appetite - An individual experiences a significant change in his or her eating habits. They may binge eat or eat very little. Loss of appetite is one of the key signs of depression.
- Lack of Concentration- Factors like disrupted sleep, long daycare, and office stress collectively may make a person feel exhausted. As a result, they may not be able to focus on the tasks they are doing.
- Isolation- One may withdraw socially and even from the family while experiencing postpartum depression. They may choose to spend more time aloof and by themselves. They may also experience loneliness.
- Physical Problems- Postpartum depression, especially in men, can manifest into physical symptoms easily for men. Some of them are headaches, digestive issues, and bodily pains, gastric issues. These are more easily identifiable.
- Loss Of Interest- They may lose enthusiasm in the pursuits such as work, hobbies, and socializing. There is a drastic drop in interest in things they seem to have enjoyed earlier.
- Low self-esteem- Often they feel they aren't their best as a parent. They feel low and guilty by comparing themselves to others; they may show concern about their drop in productivity and low motivation level.
What Are The Causes Of Postpartum Depression In Men?
Some of the causes of postpartum depression in men are:
- Personal or family history of depression
- Preoccupied worry of being a parent
- Unable to balance the roles of being a father and working professional
- Financial concerns
- Lack of family and social support
- Having a strained relationship with the partner
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How Is Parental Postpartum Depression Treated?
There are two primary treatments for parental postpartum depression, including medication and therapy. Depending on the severity of the condition, either one of them is selected, or a combination of both options is used.
- Medication - The doctors generally prescribe antidepressants as it has a direct effect on the brain. These drugs balance the chemicals that regulate your mood. You have to take the medications for a couple of weeks before you can see a noticeable difference in your mood.
- Therapy - A psychologist, psychiatrist, or mental healthcare professional can offer counseling. The main aim of therapy is to destroy the negative thoughts and provide positive strategies to gradually get back to life.
- Self-care - Self-care is also an important treatment for parental postpartum in men. Primarily it means not being too hard on yourself. Try not to take more responsibilities than you can handle. Avoid consuming alcohol or any kind of recreational drugs. Focus on taking a well-balanced time and getting exercise daily.
Why Cadabam’s Hospitals?
Parental postpartum depression is a real mental disorder that needs proper medical attention. At Cadabam’s Hospitals, there is a dedicated team of healthcare professionals who work to provide the best treatment. Based on the evaluation, the team will formulate a comprehensive and holistic treatment option to deliver you the finest experience. For treatment, if you’re noticing postpartum depression signs and symptoms, book an appointment today; call us at +91 97414 76476.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the actual cause of postpartum depression in men?
Although the exact cause of this disorder is not clear, there are some factors that contribute to depression. It can be triggered by both emotional stressors (social isolation, lack of support, financial burden, etc.) and physical changes (sleep deprivation, inadequate diet, etc.) that occur after being a father.
How long does postpartum depression last?
Postpartum confinement is defined as a system of recovery post the birth of the child. It starts right after childbirth and lasts for a variable length. Basically, men can experience this form of depression between 30 days and 100 days.
How do fathers feel after birth?
Apart from feeling happy, fathers typically feel left out, and they get overwhelmed by the new responsibilities and expectations. They need to eat well to maintain a good energy level to properly take care of the baby.
What should dads do during labor?
The most important thing dads can do is to be there for their partners and help them stay relaxed. Holding a partner's hands or massaging her head can also be helpful.
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