Im just sick of feeling worthless, I said, my head in my hands and holding back tears.
I couldnt understand why this was happening.
Months ago, our second son came into the world happy and healthy.
But I was feeling overwhelmed.
I had run my fifth marathon a few months before taking on the job title of father.
Now I had gained back all the weight Id lost while training for itand then some.
I realize Im not the only parent who has experienced this mix of emotions.
What is paternal postpartum depression?
They can start as soon as the first trimester of pregnancy, because things are already starting to change.
Its not only the shifts in sleep patterns and relationship dynamics that can cause symptoms of paternal PPD.
I was experiencing some of the challenges Bea mentioned.
But he also believes that for some men, these sudden mood changes could also be biological.
And there arehormonal shiftshappening inside the fathers body, too.
There is a decrease in testosterone, which can play a role in depression in males, he says.
Cortisol, which is a stress hormone, is escalating.
When stressors increase, its common for males to mask how theyre feeling instead of seeking help.
Bea himself remembers how overwhelmed he felt when becoming a father.
I remember being stressed and not knowing what to do, he says.
When I had children, there was no mention of postpartum depression in males.
It can injure the partnership if it isnt addressed properly.
Men whose partners show symptoms of postpartum depression are at increased risk themselves.
Bea says it can be beneficial for both parents to visit an expert for an assessment.
I remember being stressed and not knowing what to do.
When I had children, there was no mention of postpartum depression in males.
Therapists are trying to create an environment of absolute safety.
Now, I have a stronger connection with my boys, and I feel joy being with my family.
