Causes of Postpartum Depression in Males & Its Symptoms and Treatment

Postpartum depression is a word that is mostly associated with females who have recently become parents. Less is known that this condition can also affect recent male parents. Postpartum depression is known to affect 25% of males⁽¹⁾ A study shows it affects 1 in 10 new dads.⁽²⁾ First-time dads are more vulnerable to postpartum depression.

The symptoms of Postpartum depression in males include sadness, anxiousness, or emptiness.

Postpartum depression also affects the interaction of the father with the child.

The causes of postpartum depression in males include the following:

1. Hormonal Changes

   It is known that female hormones change during pregnancy. A study done in 2017 found that males develop low testosterone during their partner’s pregnancy.⁽³⁾ There may be psychological reasons for low levels of testosterone and this may further be linked with depression in males.

   Estrogen, cortisol, vasopressin, and prolactin are additional hormones that may change in men during the perinatal and postnatal period.

2. Feelings of Detachment or Feeling Overwhelmed

   Some fathers feel detached from the newborn. These are the ones who are not in a relationship with their partner or the ones who stay away from the child.

   Some parents have an overwhelming feeling of becoming parents for the first time. This can lead to depression.

3. Lack of Sleep

   People mostly sleep less with a newborn around. This may affect the length and quality of sleep.

   Research show people who are sleep deprived are more likely to develop depression.⁽⁴⁾

4. Mother’s Depression

   If the mother of the newborn has postpartum depression there are chances of the father suffering from it too.

5. History of Depression and Anxiety

   Those with a history of depression have more chances of suffering from postpartum depression which is thought to be due to a chemical imbalance in the brain.

6. Other Factors

   Other factors of postpartum depression include:

   • Young age
   • Financial difficulties
   • Stress

The symptoms of postpartum depression in males are similar to those of females. The symptoms are:

• Restlessness
• Continuous feelings of sadness, anxiousness, and emptiness
• Memory problems
• Lack of energy and motivation
• Frequently getting negative thoughts
• Sleeping in excess or very little
• Suicidal thoughts
• Loss of appetite
• Continuous aches and pains
• Irritability or anger
• Overeating

With the help of regular screening, appropriate treatment, and implementation of preventive techniques, postpartum depression in males can be combated.

The various treatment options Include:

Medications are prescribed by the doctor, which mostly includes antidepressants. These are the stimulants that rebalance the chemicals in the brain.

Therapies including cognitive behavior therapy, psychotherapy and couple therapy can be effective in helping a person come out of depression.

A person can also join support groups where they can meet people with similar situations and share coping mechanisms.

The home remedies for postpartum depression in males include:

• Acupuncture therapy
• Massage therapy
• Getting more sleep
• Avoiding alcohol and drugs
• Getting more sleep
• Finding triggers

Postpartum depression is a common condition and can also be treated easily. It is important to seek help as a person may get suicidal feelings as the condition worsens.

Those with thoughts of suicide may immediately seek help.