Pregnancy and the period after the birth of a child are a special phase not only for mothers, but also for fathers. A recently published study entitled “Fathers and Peripartum Mental Illness: The Overlooked Parent?” by Susan Garthus-Niegel and Sarah Kittel-Schneider, published in the 9/2023 issue of the journal “Der Nervenarzt”, sheds light on the mental health of fathers at this important stage of life.
Fathers are not immune to mental illness
One of the outstanding findings of this study is that fathers can also develop mental illness during their partner’s pregnancy and after childbirth. The transition to the role of father is a significant change in a man’s life, and this change can lead to a mental illness for the first time or trigger a pre-existing condition.
Common mental illnesses in fathers
The study shows that peripartum anxiety disorders and depression are relatively common among fathers, with a prevalence of about 5%. These conditions can significantly affect the well-being and quality of life of affected fathers.
But it’s not just anxiety and depression that are an issue. The study also highlights that other mental disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma from childbirth, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and even psychotic episodes can occur in fathers in the peripartum period.
Effects on children
Parents’ mental health plays a crucial role in their children’s well-being. The study shows that the father’s mental illness can have a negative impact on the children. This highlights the importance of early childhood development and the family environment.
Lack of support and need for research
Despite the relevance of this topic, there are hardly any specific screenings, preventive measures or treatment offers for affected fathers. The study highlights the urgent need for more research to deepen the understanding of mental illness among fathers around the birth of a child and to develop effective interventions.
Final Thoughts
More attention should be paid to the mental health of fathers in the peripartum period, as fathers play an important role for their partners and children. It is of great importance that society and health care take this issue seriously and provide the necessary resources to support the mental health of fathers.
The study also highlights that a holistic family perspective is crucial in research, as the mental health of both parents is inextricably linked. It is time to raise awareness of the challenges fathers face in the peripartum period and develop solutions to promote their mental health and, in turn, the well-being of their families.
Source
Garthus-Niegel, S., Kittel-Schneider, S. Fathers and Peripartum Mental Illness: The Overlooked Parent?. Neurologist 94, 779–785 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00115-023-01508-1
