Partners & Families

Support for Partners & Families

It's okay to need help, too.

Pregnancy and postpartum mental health issues impact the entire family. 

Dads, non-birthing mothers, partners, and other helpers need support, information, and connection, too. Parents and partners can also feel depressed or anxious after the birth or adoption of a child.  In fact, research shows 1 in 10 partners will experience postpartum depression.  

While partners may not experience the full range of hormonal changes or other factors that affect the birthing person, they do experience a change in their role.  The pressure to be a good parent, the desire to succeed as a father, along with lack of sleep, frustration over trying to soothe a fussy baby and fears of making a mistake all take a toll.

Sometimes it is more difficult to diagnose depression in male parents because its signs are more complicated for men.  Common perception is that depression includes sadness and crying.  But depression in male partners can include sleep deprivation, irritability, anger, working constantly, drinking and gambling, or being absent from the home for longer periods of time than normal or expected.

Resources for fathers, non-birthing partners, and family

help for dads

Whether you are a dad trying to support a partner or you think you may be experiencing a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder, we are glad you are here. We want you to know that you are not alone and that by getting the right kind of support, you will get better. Visit this link at Postpartum Support International for more information and support.

Postpartum Dads

Postpartum Dads is an online forum to help dads and families by providing firsthand information and guidance.

The Postpartum Husband

The Postpartum Husband  is a short, concise, easy-to-read book that can help a dad – or other family member – understand what perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are and how to help.

Boot Camp for New Dads

Boot Camp for New Dads is a unique father-to-father, community-based workshop that inspires and equips men of different economic levels, ages, and cultures to become confidently engaged with their infants, support their mates, and personally navigate their transformation into fathers.

Partners to Parents

Partners to Parents has practical tips on how couples can strengthen their relationship when they are pregnant or have recently had a baby. Topics include staying connected, parenting as a team, managing conflict, and seeking professional help.