Although the birth of a child is sometimes depicted as a joyful and celebratory occasion, many new fathers find that it may also be a challenging time emotionally. It is important to understand that men can also suffer from prenatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), even though moms have historically received the majority of attention in these conversations. The purpose of this blog is to raise awareness about PMADs in dads by examining their frequency, signs, and significance for the family's overall health.

What Are Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)?

Mood and anxiety disorders that affect people throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period are referred to as perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. While moms are more frequently linked to these diseases, a new study indicates that fathers are equally susceptible. Fathers are primarily affected by the following PMADs:

• Postpartum Depression (PPD) in Fathers: Anger, pessimism, and sadness might persist for a long time in fathers suffering from postpartum depression. The obligations of children can overwhelm fathers with PPD, and they may feel deeply inadequate. A persistently depressed mood, loss of interest in activities, exhaustion, changes in eating or sleep patterns, and a sense of worthlessness are common symptoms. Anger and impatience are common problems for fathers, and they can harm their relationships with their spouses and kids.
• Postpartum Anxiety in Fathers: Postpartum anxiety in fathers is characterized by excessive concern and fear for the wellbeing of the infant and their ability to provide for the family. Panic episodes and ongoing anxiety may result from this. Excessive concern for the health of the unborn child, bodily signs such as a fast heartbeat or lightheadedness, and a propensity to steer clear of potentially stressful circumstances are some of the symptoms. Fathers may also worry excessively about the risks their children may face.
• Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Fathers: Fathers with postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) experience distressing, intrusive worries about hurting the baby or that a horrible event will occur. Fathers who perceive these risks may become habitual overindulgers in these behaviors. Frequent signs and symptoms include repetitive routines of checking or cleaning, intense concern about averting possible injury, and intrusive, upsetting thoughts or pictures of hurting the infant. These symptoms may make it difficult to go about everyday tasks and form a bond with the infant.
• Postpartum Psychosis in Fathers: Fathers may experience postpartum psychosis, a rare but serious mental health disorder. There is a detachment from reality, accompanied by severe mood fluctuations, hallucinations, and delusions. Delusions (false beliefs), significant mood swings, paranoia, and hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there) are some of the symptoms. The father or others could be harmed, so this problem needs to be treated by a professional right once.

Prevalence and Risk Factors in Fathers

According to studies, between 10% and 25% of men during the postpartum period report having substantial mood and anxiety issues. Fathers who have PMADs may be affected by several variables, such as:

• Sleep Deprivation: Significant sleep disruptions are a common occurrence for new fathers, and this can worsen mood disorders.
• Stress and Anxiety: Anxiety and depression symptoms can be exacerbated by the demands of becoming a new parent, such as changes in family dynamics and financial worries.
• Relationship Strain: Reduced intimacy and marital relationship adjustments might affect mental health.

History of Mental Health Issues: Fathers who have experienced anxiety or depression in the past are more vulnerable.

Symptoms and Impact

Among the many signs of PMADs in fathers are frequently the following:

• Chronic melancholy or depressed mood
• Intolerance and fury
• Absence of social and familial interactions
• Inability to form a link with the infant Overwhelming concern or anxiety for the infant's welfare

These symptoms may have a major impact on the father's capacity to parent and on the dynamics of the family as a whole. Fathers who suffer from PMADs may find it difficult to fulfil their family responsibilities, find it harder to be productive at work, and struggle to maintain positive connections with their partners and kids.

Importance of Addressing PMADs in Fathers

It's critical to treat PMADs in dads for several reasons:

• Family Well-Being: The mental well-being of fathers has a direct impact on how families operate. By addressing these problems, families can function better as a whole and the child's growth will be supported.
• Partner Support: Supporting fathers can help spouses feel less stressed and have better mental health, leading to a more harmonious family dynamic.
• Early Intervention: By treating PMADs early on, more severe and long-term issues can be avoided, improving the father's quality of life and capacity to parent.

Seeking Help and Support

Fathers who are suffering from PMADs want to get expert assistance. Choices consist of:

• Therapy: Other therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), have demonstrated efficacy.
• Support Groups: Shared experiences and a sense of community can be fostered by peer support groups.
• Medication: A medical professional may prescribe medication in specific circumstances.

In addition to providing the necessary resources and assistance, healthcare providers should test fathers for PMADs.

Conclusion

Fathers' perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are a significant but sometimes disregarded component of family mental health. Understanding the prevalence, signs, and effects of these diseases is essential to offering all parents thorough support. We can improve the health of the whole family and encourage better parenting practices by treating PMADs in fathers.

For fathers struggling with PMADs, internet counselling programs can also provide easy-to-access support. Prenatal mental health psychologists in India can be accessed through platforms like TalktoAngel. These specialists can provide online counselling sessions, so dads can get the help they require no matter where they live. The best psychologists in India are available through these platforms to provide comprehensive and convenient support.

Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach & Ms Nicole Fernandes, Counselling Psychologist

References

• American Psychological Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Cameron, E. E., Sedov, I. D., & Tomfohr-Madsen, L. M. (2016). Prevalence of postpartum depression among fathers: A meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 202, 367-382. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2016.05.038
• Leach, L. S., Poyser, C., & Fairbrother, N. (2016). Prevalence and risk factors for anxiety and depression during the transition to parenthood: A meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 208, 575-590. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2016.09.023
• Paulson, J. F., & Bazemore, S. D. (2010). Prenatal and postpartum depression in fathers and its association with maternal depression: A meta-analysis. Journal of the American Medical Association, 303(19), 1961-1969. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2010.605