The first weeks after pregnancy and birth can be exhausting. As a new mum, not only have you achieved something incredible physically, but you’re also navigating a whirlwind of hormones. Add in sleep deprivation, breastfeeding, and a flood of new responsibilities, and it’s no surprise if you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed. Sudden mood swings, frequent tears, self-doubt, and sadness are completely normal. For some, particularly first-time mums, this may be the so-called “baby blues”, which tends to pass after a few days or weeks. But if these negative emotions persist, it could be a sign of postnatal depression (PND).
And it’s not just mums who are affected. Yes—postnatal depression and men is real. Men with postnatal depression are far more common than people realise.
Often when we think of postnatal depression, we picture a new mum. But this mental health challenge doesn’t discriminate—dads can be affected too. In this blog post, we’re shedding light on the often-overlooked topic of paternal postnatal depression. We want to support you and help break the taboo around men’s mental health.
What Causes Postnatal Depression in Dads?
With mums, the causes may seem clearer—hormonal shifts during and after pregnancy play a huge role. But what about men? Why do some dads experience emotional changes after birth?
What causes postnatal depression and men? In men, it can be triggered by a combination of hormonal changes, emotional pressure, and the dramatic adjustment to life after a baby. While fluctuating hormones are the main culprit in mums, external stressors tend to be more significant for dads—things like relationship strain, financial worries, and sleep deprivation.
Why Is Postnatal Depression in Dads Often Overlooked?
A big part of the problem is that many men don’t talk about their feelings—sometimes due to societal expectations. “Men have to be strong,” “showing emotion is weak”—we’ve all heard these outdated ideas. Such thinking stops many men from seeking help when they need it.
Even health professionals may miss the signs. Because men don’t go through the physical and hormonal changes of pregnancy and birth, people often assume they’ll “just cope”. But studies suggest that around 1 in 10 dads experience postnatal depression—yet many cases go undiagnosed or untreated.
What are the symptoms of postnatal depression?
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Persistent low mood or emotional numbness: Feeling down, empty or indifferent for weeks.
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Withdrawal from family and friends: Losing interest in social connections and family life.
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Changes in sleep or appetite: Sleeping too much or too little; loss of appetite or binge eating.
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Irritability or sudden outbursts: Anger or frustration that feels out of character.
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Feelings of failure or being overwhelmed: Persistent thoughts of not being a good dad or partner.
How Men with Postnatal Depression Affects the Family
When a dad is struggling with postnatal depression, it can impact the whole family. Relationships can suffer, and both emotional and physical closeness may decrease. Babies and young children are incredibly perceptive and can sense when a parent is emotionally absent. This can in turn affect their emotional and cognitive development.
That’s why men’s mental health is so important.
Support for Dads with Postnatal Depression
At Ergobaby, we know that becoming a parent is one of life’s most beautiful—and most demanding—experiences. There will be ups and downs. That’s why we’re passionate about breaking the stigma that might be holding you back from fully enjoying life with your baby. If you or someone you know may be affected, here are some ways to seek support:
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Therapy: Speaking with a psychologist or therapist can help, and sometimes medication may also be recommended.
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Support groups: Look for local or online groups specifically for new dads.
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Education: The more you understand about postnatal depression, the better you can manage your feelings and challenge stigma.
How long does postnatal depression last? That depends. For some it resolves in weeks with the right help, for others it can last longer if untreated. Early support is key.
How Partners and Family Can Help
Loved ones can make a huge difference. Here’s how you can support someone experiencing postnatal depression:
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Talk openly: Create a safe space for honest, non-judgemental conversations.
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Share the load: Take turns caring for the baby to lighten the emotional and physical burden.
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Encourage professional help: Offer to help find support and take the first steps together.
Talk, talk, talk. Communication is key—especially when both parents may be feeling overwhelmed by the new routine. And remember: it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or neighbour offering to hold the baby, do the laundry, or drop off a hot meal—every little bit helps.
Can Babywearing Help with Postnatal Depression?
In a conversation with US expert Emily Little, founder of the organisation Nurturely, we learned how powerful babywearing can be—especially when navigating postnatal depression. With a background in developmental psychology and perinatal health, Emily shared the everyday ways babywearing can make a difference.
Why Babywearing Can Help with Postnatal Depression
Emily highlights several reasons why babywearing may help ease symptoms of depression:
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Physical closeness boosts oxytocin (the bonding hormone) and reduces stress hormones like cortisol.
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Babies cry less when carried, which takes pressure off you as a parent.
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Strengthens your bond with your baby, promoting feelings of trust and security.
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Improves responsiveness: With your baby in a sling or carrier, you’re more in tune with their needs and more interactive overall.
For more on this topic, read our previous blog post on how babywearing supports parents with postnatal depression.
Isn’t Babywearing Just for Mums? Absolutely Not.
Babywearing is for everyone—mum, dad, or any caregiver. Studies show that early bonding between fathers and babies plays a major role in a child’s emotional, cognitive, and social development. And babywearing gives dads a unique opportunity to nurture that connection. When you wear your baby, they feel your warmth, hear your heartbeat, and move with your rhythm—offering them comfort and safety. And yes, it strengthens dad too.
Postnatal Depression in Dads: Let’s Break the Silence Together
Recognising and addressing postnatal depression and men is vital—not just for fathers, but for the whole family. The more we talk about it, the more we help end the stigma around men’s mental health.
If you’ve found this post helpful, please share it. Whether you’re affected yourself or know someone who is, remember: you are not alone. Let’s raise awareness and ensure that all parents get the support they need
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Ideal Spots for a Nature Walk with Baby
- Parks and Gardens: Great for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Nature Trails and Forests: Perfect for more adventurous outings.
- Beaches and Lakesides: Wonderful for enjoying the water and sand, with the right carrier.
Activity Ideas
- Hiking: Enjoy a scenic hike with a hiking baby carrier that offers support and storage.
- Bird Watching: Use your carrier to keep your baby close while you explore and observe wildlife.
- Picnics: A carrier can free up your hands, making it easier to carry picnic supplies.
Advantages of Using Strollers for Nature Adventures
While baby carriers are fantastic for mobility and closeness, depending on the adventure of choice you might want to be a stroller along too.
There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller: This is typically the stroller parents thing of buying for all its versatility.
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller:These compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Jogging stroller: Designed for parents who want to combine fitness with outdoor adventures.
- Double stroller: Designed for parents with multiple kids, especially twins.
- Car seat carrier: These strollers connect to a specific car seat. We don't typically recommend these as they can be unsafe for baby and uncomfortable for parents who are pushing.
Learn more about the types of strollers and which one would be best for you.
Benefits of Bringing a Stroller
- Storage Space for Gear: Ample room for carrying all your essentials like a diaper bag, beach toys and more.
- Shade and Weather Protection: Built-in canopies to shield your baby from the sun when they are lounging.
- Options: If you have more than one kid, you can stroll with one and carry the other. Or, if you’re getting warm or your little one is getting fussy, you can switch up their position from stroller to carrier or vice versa.
Safety Tips for Strollers
- Ensure your stroller is in good working condition. Make sure buckles are still buckling and that there are no rips or holes that could compromise your baby’s safety.
- Use sunshades or bug nets to protect your little one’s skin.
- Securing the baby properly: always buckle up your baby for safety even if you think they are old enough to go without the buckle.