Dads and co-parents
Dads and co-parents play an important role in their partner’s recovery. We know that it can also be a difficult time for their and for their own wellbeing.
Remember as a new parent it is important that you look after your own physical and emotional wellbeing. When a family member who is either pregnant or has had a baby experiences a perinatal mental illness the whole family is affected.
Becoming a parent is often a stressful time. Non birthing partners often experience worries, pressures, and changes in relationships and quite a bit of sleep disturbances and changes in routine in the early weeks and months.
Research tells us that between 1 and 3 non birthing partners suffer from low mood, anxiety, and postnatal depression. This rises for partners who are supporting a partner with a perinatal mental illness or after a traumatic birth.
It is important to be mindful of your emotional wellbeing during this time.
If your partner is involved with the perinatal service it will be important that you are part of their care with us. We would welcome a conversation with you about your own wellbeing and signposting you to other forms of support for you and your family.
You may like to use the Perinatal Pathway questionnaire, designed to take a few minutes to complete. Its purpose is to quickly suggest the right support (pathway) for the person answering the questions. Dads/Co-Parents are a key demographic it was designed to assist. Please ensure you complete the link for fathers and co-parents.
Short films
Andy and Stu share their honest and brave insights of their own perinatal journey.
Alright Mate? are a Devon based arts company using creativity to raise awareness about men’s mental health, and share lived experience to reduce stigma and encourage men to talk.
They produced this series of short films with dads who have opened up about their struggles with postnatal depression.
Invisible Dads Campaign
The impact on dad’s mental health
Why is it difficult for dads to say they are struggling – part one
Why it is difficult for dads to say they are struggling - part two
Links to more support for partners.