Male Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is common among women who feel depressed and confused after having a baby when they think they should be elated. The same affliction happens to men too. It’s not widely talked about, but it’s very real and very treatable through talk therapy with a compassionate, understanding therapist. At Online Psychiatrists, your psychotherapist specializes in a variety of therapeutic options to help you understand and move through what is a recognized mental health disorder. In New York, New Jersey and Florida, receive the most effective treatment for male postpartum depression either in person or via online video conferencing. Call today for an appointment

What Is Male Postpartum Depression?

Male postpartum depression is a mental health condition that affects new fathers. About two to 25 percent of men experience this form of depression during the pregnancy phase or shortly after the birth of the child. It can strike a new father anywhere from three to six months after the birth.

Nearly 50 percent of cases of postpartum depression in men occur because their wives suffer from postpartum depression as well. Seek help for this silent condition from an expert who understands what you’re going through.

Your psychotherapy doctor at Online Psychiatrists knows the most effective way to treat male postpartum depression. Serving New Jersey, New York and Florida, this psychotherapy practice offers online psychotherapy sessions conducted remotely to give you the confidentiality and safe environment you need to feel better quickly.

Most male postpartum depression is due to hormonal changes. Just like women, your hormones change during the pregnancy. These changes continue for several months after the birth. The decrease in testosterone hormones during this time, for example, is linked to depression in men. Other hormones — like estrogen, cortisol, vasopressin and prolactin — also interfere with your mental health.

Other factors that contribute to postpartum depression in dads include:

• Feelings of inadequacy
• Family history of depression or anxiety disorders
• Employment or financial problems
• No support system from family or friends
• Marital problems
• Lack of sleep due to the baby constantly crying
• Feeling excluded from the special bond developing between the mother and baby
• An unplanned pregnancy

What Are the Symptoms of Male Postpartum Depression?

Many men downplay the stress, tiredness and feelings of being overwhelmed after a baby is born. You may think it’s a common reaction to the changes in your household. But male postpartum depression is very real and often doesn’t go away on its own.

You don’t hear much about this condition because new fathers don’t want to burden their wives and friends with talk about feeling weak and sad after they bring a new baby into the home. There’s already too much to do with a newborn in the house. Signs that you may be going through more than just a little disruption in your routines include:

• Increasing your alcohol intake
• Abusing narcotics or prescription drugs
• Getting angry more often than normal, resulting in conflicts
• Feeling frustrated or irritable
• Being easily stressed
• Exhibiting violent behaviors
• Losing or gaining weight
• Complaining of headaches or stomach problems
• Having difficulty concentrating and getting motivated
• Working constantly
• Doing more impulsive things, such as driving recklessly or indulging in an extramarital affair
• Losing interest in work, hobbies or sex
• Feeling discouraged and cynical
• Being fatigued
• Having suicidal thoughts
• Feeling so sad that you start crying without reason
• Entertaining negative thoughts about your manhood and how you should behave

How Do You Treat Postpartum Depression in Dads?

Admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery from this disorder. Your doctor at Online Psychiatrists talks with you about your feelings in the complete privacy of a patient room or video chat. Confidentiality and trust allow you to open up about how you feel.

Talk therapy is the most effective treatment. Depending on your goals and preferences, you may participate in a variety of therapeutic sessions, such as:

• Interpersonal therapy
• Integrative therapy
• Cognitive behavior therapy
• Dialectical behavior therapy
• Gestalt therapy

What Else Can I Do to Overcome Male Postpartum Depression?

Other, co-existing conditions like manic depression or anxiety may require medication, which your psychiatrist prescribes and manages. You may be directed to a support group for postpartum depression in dads.

Avoid unnecessary grief and self-doubt through early detection of the condition. With proper treatment, you’ll be able to bond with your child sooner and avoid painful lifestyle interruptions. Don’t wait. Contact Online Psychiatrists to talk with a trained specialist to help you analyze your feelings and show you how to combat your unwanted feelings in a safe and productive manner.