– postpartum depression in fathers
– screening for postpartum depression in dads.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : Joel Gratcyk can vividly recall the moment when he hit rock bottom. As tears streamed down his face, he pulled his car to the side of the road. The weight of his new role as a father had become overwhelming, overshadowing what should have been a joyous time in his life. The stress, the sleepless nights, and the gnawing fear of not measuring up as a parent had taken its toll.
“At that moment, I knew I couldn’t do it alone,” Gratcyk, now 42, reflected. “I needed help.”
The experience of postpartum depression (PPD) is often associated with mothers, but recent studies have shown that fathers can also be affected. Approximately 10% of dads are estimated to experience PPD, while around 14% of mothers will go through the condition. This growing awareness has led to a new pilot study at the University of Illinois at Chicago, suggesting that routine screening for PPD in men is essential for comprehensive family support.
Sam Wainwright, the lead author of the study and an assistant professor at UIC, emphasised the importance of including men in discussions around mental health during the postpartum period. He highlighted the need to break free from gendered care silos and provide adequate support for the entire family unit.
As Father’s Day approaches, Gratcyk looks back on his journey with his two sons, now aged 7 and 11, with hope for a more open dialogue around emotions and vulnerability. He believes that fostering honest conversations with his children will help them navigate their own emotional well-being as they grow older.
Traditionally, PPD has been viewed as a condition exclusive to women due to the physical and hormonal changes they undergo post-birth. However, research has shown that men can also experience a decline in testosterone levels after becoming fathers, leading to mood changes. The onset of paternal PPD typically occurs three to six months after childbirth and can have significant impacts on the family dynamic.
The study conducted at UIC involved screening 24 new dads, with 30% testing positive for PPD. Wainwright noted that the high percentage of participants from racial or ethnic minority groups may indicate a predisposition to mental health issues due to systemic disparities. Regular screening for PPD during infant check-ups could help identify and address the condition early on.
The societal stigma around men’s mental health often prevents them from seeking help, according to Amanda Atkins, a therapist specialising in perinatal mental health. Men may feel pressured to appear strong and suppress their feelings, leading to untreated mental health issues.
Gratcyk’s journey towards healing involved therapy and medication, allowing him to address his symptoms and prioritise his well-being. He acknowledged the importance of seeking help and breaking free from the notion that men have to tough it out alone.
The study’s findings underscore the need for a paradigm shift in healthcare, where fathers are actively included in postpartum care. By providing holistic support for the entire family unit, health professionals can address the mental health needs of both parents and ensure a healthier start for newborns.
Gratcyk’s experience with PPD has been a learning curve, with his second bout being less severe due to early intervention. With a more proactive approach to self-care, therapy, and open communication, he has seen significant improvements in his mental health over the years.
As awareness around paternal PPD grows, it is crucial to destigmatise men’s mental health struggles and provide them with the support they need to navigate the challenges of parenthood. By normalising conversations around PPD and offering comprehensive care for fathers, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for families..
dads screened postpartum depression
postpartum depression study says dads screened.
A Teaspoon Before Bedtime Makes you Lose 32LBS in 2 Weeks.
Related Post : Remember Tiger Wood's Ex Wife, Elin Nordegren ? Take a Look at Her Now.
The Conjoined Twins Abby & Brittany Hensel are No Longer Together.
