DADS CAN SUFFER FROM POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION TOO

When we think of postpartum depression (PPD), the first image that often comes to mind is that of a new mother, struggling to cope with the emotional and physical challenges following childbirth. While the condition is widely recognized in women, there is an often-overlooked reality that dads can experience postpartum depression too. In a new research study, experts share their insights with& Parents.com and shine a light on how and why this can happen. Father holding newborn daughter. PIXABAY.COM “Postpartum depression symptoms in men are often internalized, making them harder to detect,” Shanaz Ikonne, a Texas-based licensed professional therapist told Parents. “In my experience counseling, men internalize their struggles until the symptoms begin to affect their marriage, relationships, or job performance.” Ikonne continued, “Untreated PPD can impact a father’s ability to bond with their child, which can affect the child’s emotional and cognitive development, in addition to increasing conflict. It can also impact daily life functions and, in some instances, increase suicidal thoughts, substance use, and withdrawal from relationships.” Stressed man. PIXABAY.COM The new study, reported in the Journal of Affective Disorders, shows that 1 in 10 men screen positive for depression in the postnatal period. According to Parents, to...