Being a father for the first time is an incredible experience, which can be filled with both joy and challenges. It takes several months to adjust to the care of the newborn. Providing undivided attention to work or the child sounds quite difficult for either of the parents. In this article, we spoke to Dr Jagannath Kulkarni, Consultant-Laparoscopic and Bariatric Surgery, Manipal Hospital, Goa, who explained the challenges of parenthood for first-time dads and how to deal with it.
According to the Journal of Perinatal Education, men's adaptation to fatherhood significantly impacts family well-being. Transitioning to parenthood includes managing diverse stressors, such as physiological challenges linked to parenting, identity shifts, reduced relationship satisfaction, and evolving social roles.
Men often report experiencing depression during their partner's pregnancy, with a recent meta-analysis revealing an 8% incidence of paternal postpartum depression. Furthermore, research indicates that depressive symptoms typically rise by 68% over the first five years of fatherhood for fathers residing with their children in the home.
“In many households, the mother spends more time with the child at home; some determined and brave mothers handle both- work and the child. It’s a hectic schedule for most of the newlyweds as both have jobs to build their careers and to support the regular expenses. The metropolitan places are another big challenge for them to beat the traffic on their way to the workplaces, although working from home benefits some in this regard,” said Dr Kulkarni.
Also Read: Mental Health Matters: Expert Explains Challenges During Fatherhood And How To Find The Solutions
Prioritising Health Amidst Busy Schedules
“First-time dads feel the need to take good care of their family by turning themselves into Turbo-Diesel engines; completing their work quickly every day so they can spend more time with their child and wife,” said Dr Kulkarni.
While doing so, many forget/ neglect to take care of their health. This may lead to poor health over several years. When one looks back on their life, they wish they had more time!
Establishing Healthy Habits
To avoid such situations one must understand that managing time is an important part of life as the child grows up. The day starts early in the morning approximately at 6 am after nearly seven hours of sleep (many can’t achieve this when the child is young).
“It is important to make it a habit to exercise for at least 30 minutes before the child wakes up. If the child is awake, involve him/her in your home exercise routine. This schedule, followed five days a week, helps fathers stay fit,” added Dr Kulkarni.
Balanced Diet and Hydration
Remember to stay hydrated and have small, frequent (3-4) meals throughout the day. This will help you stay active, especially towards the end of the day when you know your child will be waiting for you in the evening, hoping to play.
Also Read: Parenting In The Digital Age: Expert Explains How Smartphones Can Harm Your Kids’ Hearing Health
Setting a Positive Example
“Understandably, many fathers would be missing their moments with friends, especially with a can of beer but it is of utmost importance to be a role model to the child by preventing his/ her exposure to such habits. This indirectly improves the health of the father and the family,” said Dr Kulkarni.
Physical Activity for Both Father and Child
An hour of either walking, running, cycling, cricket, swimming, or playing in a park should be a routine for the child. One can promise a weekend outing to a fun place for play and food if the child does well over the preceding week.
Teaching Life Skills and Healthy Eating
Involving the child in routine tasks, such as shopping for vegetables and groceries makes them understand the dynamics of life.
Minimising screen time and junk food is an extremely important practice to curb childhood obesity which can complicate the child’s life. Any kind of calorie gain by the child because of sweets offered to him/her must be spent as some kind of exercise the same day. The child should be educated well about 'unhealthy' and 'healthy' food early in their life to ensure their good health as they grow up.
Leading by Example
Dr Kulkarni highlighted, "The child will ape parents in every possible way. It’s our responsibility to show them 'in reality' the best way to live is by 'doing it' rather than by 'saying it'. This surely helps in building good health for the father and the whole family."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]