Did You Know New Fathers Face Paternal Postnatal Depression and Hormonal Shifts? Tips to Manage and Control

Becoming a parent is often described as one of life’s most transformative experiences, but this transition is not without its hiccups, especially when it comes to new fathers. On the occasion of International Men’s Day, which is observed every year on November 19, we spoke with our expert, who told us that paternal mental health is still widely overlooked. While much attention is given to mothers after childbirth, she highlighted that new fathers can also experience postnatal depression, and undergo significant hormonal changes. 

In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth,  Zalak Nandu, Psychologist at Mpower, Aditya Birla Education Trust, Thane, and she shared that these changes may affect their emotions, behaviour, bonding, and overall well-being, yet they usually go unnoticed because it is still expected of men to remain strong and unaffected. Here is everything you need to know about how new fathers face paternal postnatal depression and hormonal shifts along with expert-apporved tips to manage and control them.

What is Paternal Postnatal Depression (PPND)?

PPND is a mood disorder experienced by men during their partner's pregnancy or anytime in the first year after the baby is born. With maternal postnatal depression being more recognised, PPND is usually considered stress or fatigue. However, the condition is real and can disrupt a father's ability to bond with the baby, support the partner, and maintain emotional stability.

Also Read: International Men's Day 2025: Study Reveals High Suicide Risk In Men Driven by Emotional Isolation, Expert Shares How To Overcome

According to Zalak, men may become irritable, angry, emotionally distant, or experience prolonged sadness, a change in appetite, and increased use of alcohol or other substances. Often, fathers suppress their emotions, assuming that showing vulnerability makes them appear weak, which further complicates their mental health.

How New Fathers Have Hormonal Changes 

Most people think that mothers are the only ones who experience biological changes after childbirth; however, studies have proved that fathers do, too. These changes include a decrease in testosterone levels and an increase in oxytocin, prolactin, and estrogen. According to Zalak, hormonal changes are nature's way to promote bonding between the father and the newborn. Yet fluctuating hormone levels, along with sleep deprivation and lifestyle changes, may add to instability in mood and symptoms similar to those of depression.

Fluctuations in testosterone impact energy, motivation, libido, and emotional balance, and the peak of oxytocin supports nurturing behaviour. If these hormones do not stabilise appropriately, then fathers may end up becoming overwhelmed, anxious, and emotionally distant.

What Causes Paternal Postnatal Depression?

Causes of PPND are often interrelated and might include the following:

• Financial pressure or additional responsibilities
• Sleep deprivation and exhaustion
• Changes in the dynamics of the relationship
• Feeling excluded during early childcare stages
• Feeling unsupported emotionally or under societal pressure to stay strong
• Mother's postnatal depression, which can affect fathers as well

Zalak emphasised that acknowledging these challenges instead of suppressing them is the first step toward recovery.

Tips To Manage and Control Paternal Postnatal Depression

Here are a few expert-apporved ways to cope with and manage paternal postnatal depression:

1. Normalise Conversations Around Mental Health

Fathers should be encouraged to share their emotions, free from judgment. Sharing concerns with partners, friends, or family helps reduce emotional burden.

2. Prioritise Sleep and Rest

Rotation of night duties with the partner, power naps, or acceptance of help from family members may significantly improve mood and energy.

3. Early Professional Help

Consult a psychologist or psychiatrist if the mood disturbance continues for more than two weeks. Therapy, counselling, or medication (if needed) can provide meaningful relief.

4. Strengthen the Support System

Joining father support groups or new-parent communities helps them understand that they are not alone in these experiences.

5. Become Involved with Baby Care

Oxytocin levels can naturally be increased by feeding, bathing, or simply holding the baby, and bonding positively influences emotional well-being.

6. Keep Healthy Habits

Regular exercise, nutrient intake, breathing exercises, and abundant hydration help balance out the hormones and maintain good mental health.

Bottomline

Paternal postnatal depression exists, is common, and is treatable, but only where openly acknowledged. New fathers need understanding, support, and timely help just as much as new mothers.