Spotlight on perinatal mental health in dads
1 Jul 2016
Raphael Services provide specialist services to parents and families who suffer from anxiety, depression and other mental health issues during pregnancy and following childbirth, a time known as the perinatal period.
St John of God Social Outreach Director Early Years, Anna Roberts said that while community awareness of perinatal anxiety and depression among mothers had increased significantly, many people were still unaware that these conditions also affect at least 10 percent of Australian dads.
“Men are twice as likely to experience a perinatal mental illness if their partner is suffering but there are a significant number of fathers who suffer from antenatal and postnatal anxiety and depression whose partners don’t,” Anna said.
“Women have regular appointments in the lead up to the birth of the baby with their GP, midwife and child health nurse and that’s often when mental health issues are first identified.
“Men don’t access these same support services so it’s less likely that a health professional will have the opportunity to pick up on symptoms of anxiety and depression.
“We suspect that while one in 10 Australian fathers is diagnosed with these illnesses, the real number is likely to be much higher.
“Statistically, men are also less likely to seek help due to the misconception that perinatal mental illnesses are conditions that only affect women.
“It’s important that men and women are aware of the symptoms of perinatal anxiety and depression so they can recognise them in themselves and their partner, friends and family members and encourage them to seek help.”
Warning signs include: feelings of being overwhelmed and unable to cope; anger and irritability; withdrawal from relationships; loss of libido; changes in appetite; engaging in risk taking behaviours; and increased use of drugs and alcohol.
Men who are experiencing perinatal anxiety and depression are encouraged to make an appointment with their GP who can connect them to the treatment and support through providers such as Raphael Services.
The Healthy Men, Healthy Minds photo competition will require entrants to upload a photo that illustrates the positive relationship between a child and significant male in their life to the St John of God Health Care Facebook page for the chance to win an iPad Air 2.