Identifying the support needs of fathers affected by post-partum depression: a pilot study
N Letourneau1, L Duffett-Leger, C-L Dennis
1University of New Brunswick PO Box 4400 Fredericton NB E3B 5A3 Canada. nicolel@unb.ca
Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
|January 11, 2011
Summary
Fathers supporting partners with postpartum depression (PPD) experienced depressive symptoms and faced barriers like lack of information. This pilot study confirms the need for further research into fathers' PPD experiences.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Postpartum depression (PPD) significantly impacts families.
- Fathers' experiences and support needs during a partner's PPD are under-researched.
- Understanding these experiences is crucial for developing targeted support interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the experiences of fathers whose partners have PPD.
- To identify fathers' support needs, available resources, and barriers to accessing support.
- To inform a larger-scale study on paternal experiences with maternal PPD.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative, exploratory/descriptive, multi-site pilot study.
- Community-based research approach.
- Telephone interviews with 11 fathers in New Brunswick and Alberta.
Main Results:
- Fathers reported depressive symptoms: anxiety, irritability, sadness, appetite changes, fatigue, and thoughts of harm.
- Key barriers included a lack of information on PPD resources and difficulty seeking support.
- Fathers' experiences varied, highlighting diverse needs and challenges.
Conclusions:
- This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of researching fathers' experiences with partners' PPD.
- Findings underscore the need for accessible information and support services for fathers.
- Further research is warranted to develop effective interventions supporting fathers during PPD.
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