The Lived Experiences of Fathers with Postpartum Depression: A Qualitative Study

Although parents may joyfully anticipate the birth of a child, it's impossible for them to know ahead of time just how profoundly their lives will change. Postpartum depression (PPD) can result. While there is a substantial body of research regarding maternal PPD, paternal PPD has received far less attention and is neither adequately understood nor diagnosed. This is exacerbated by outdated but persistent sociocultural masculinity norms and the stigmas around mental health issues.

This study sought to explore the lived experiences of new fathers with PPD in order to provide greater insight into their experiences.

This qualitative study used an interpretive phenomenological design. The theoretical framework was provided by Hill's family stress theory. The study was conducted among 10 new fathers with self-reported or clinically diagnosed PPD, recruited through social media and residing in the United States. Data were gathered through online surveys and via individual interviews conducted over Zoom or by phone. Questions were designed to elicit information on how participants experienced the transition to fatherhood and how their PPD manifested, as well as on their coping skills and resources, partner and family support, and meaningful social relationships that affected their PPD outcomes.

The study findings led to the identification of three major themes: trauma, depression, and societal role conflict. The theme of trauma included the subthemes birth experience; demanding roles; self-care limitations; and isolation, confusion, and identity loss. Nearly all of the new fathers reported feeling helpless, useless, and unprepared, with many also reporting self-doubt and a sense of failure. The theme of depression highlighted the subtheme impact of depressive symptoms. Most of the new fathers reported isolating, rather than asking for help. The theme of societal role conflict included the subthemes relationship strains, stigma and associated guilt, lack of or ineffective health care education, and coping and resources. All of the participants reported having difficulty finding resources, underscoring the need for increased mental health awareness and support.

The study findings provide strong evidence that new fathers with paternal PPD experience significant trauma, depression, and societal role conflicts. Current clinical practices and education regarding paternal PPD are generally inadequate, reflecting outdated obstetric models that fail to consider the needs of new fathers. It's vital that clinicians recognize and address paternal PPD, including assessment for negative coping behaviors (such as unhealthful eating, overworking, and excessive substance use). The lack of adequate education and resources for new fathers, as well as the sociocultural stigmas that surround mental health issues, must also be addressed. Priorities should include developing and teaching new fathers effective coping strategies.