Screening for depression in new fathers beyond the clinic: An observational study

Perinatal depression among fathers can impact their own wellbeing, as well as that of their partner and child. Infrastructure to support universal paternal mental health screening is limited. Digital screening embedded within the SMS4dads text messaging program provides an opportunity to reach and refer distressed fathers. This study compares the completion and help-seeking rates associated with two voluntary self-assessment tools included in SMS4dads: the Kessler Distress Scale (K6) and the Parenting Quiz (PQ).

This study analysed automatically collected data from Australian fathers enrolled in the SMS4dads program. The proportions of completion and willingness to seek help through two screening tools were assessed. Chi-square tests were employed to examine associations between fathers' characteristics and response rates.

The PQ (n = 3110/9260, 44.4 %) had a higher completion rate than the K6 (n = 1321/7871, 16.8 %). Distressed fathers completing the PQ also showed higher willingness to seek help (n = 28/330, 8.5 %) compared to the K6 (n = 28/504, 5.6 %). Paternal age and postnatal enrolment were positively associated with K6 completion (p < .001), whereas PQ completion was positively associated with paternal age, university education, postnatal enrolment, first-time parent, and lower baseline distress levels (p < .001).

Opportunistic mental health screening through a digital parenting program may be a feasible approach for identifying distressed fathers and referring them to mental health support. Universal mental health screening for fathers may require digital health initiatives beyond traditional healthcare settings.