Most people are aware that many women suffer from postpartum depression. In the months after giving birth, many women become deeply depressed and even suicidal. This is caused by a combination of massive hormonal changes, constant anxiety, too much stress, and too little sleep. Postpartum depression affects about 10 to 15 percent of mothers within the first year after giving birth. While the majority of women, around 80 percent, experience the “baby blues,” mood swings, anxiety, and despondency in first week or so following the birth, fewer experience the more severe symptoms of postpartum depression. These symptoms include irritability, anxiety, panic attacks, persistent sadness, loss of appetite, feelings of inadequacy, and thoughts of suicide. Doctors now typically watch out for signs of postpartum depression, which can have developmental effects on the baby as well as endangering the mother. Recent studies have found that new fathers are also at increased risk for depression. One study of a large cohort found that about 4.4 percent of new fathers tested positive for depression, compared to five percent of new mothers in the same cohort. This might seem surprising, given that women bear most of the burden of caring for a new baby and have to manage it while recovering from the trauma of childbirth. The similarity in rates of depression between mothers and fathers might have to do with who was actually screened. Parents in the study were screened during pediatrician visits and just over eight percent of respondents were fathers. Of all the parents who screened positive for depression, just under 12 percent were fathers. This indicates that mothers are much more often affected by postpartum depression, but the fathers who are more involved in caring for the child suffer depression at a similar rate to the mothers. There are several reasons these rates are so similar. One reason is that, just like the mothers, fathers experience more stress and less sleep. Studies have found that new fathers also experience hormonal changes after a baby is born. Among other changes, the stress hormones known as glucocorticoids become elevated and testosterone drops. Fathers who are more involved with the care of the child are likely to get less sleep, further eroding the difference. There are several reasons it’s important to be aware of postpartum depression in both men and women. First, it may lead to neglect or abuse of the baby. There have been several high profile cases of new mothers killing their babies and committing suicide. That’s obviously the worst-case scenario, but even less severe postpartum depression may affect the baby’s development. Second, depression is a major risk factor for addiction. Mothers are often reluctant to begin using alcohol or drugs while pregnant or nursing, but fathers may be less reluctant. Suffering through months of postpartum depression may lead to substance use issues. Furthermore, if left untreated, postpartum depression can persist for years. Not only is that a major detriment to quality of life, it magnifies the impact of depression on the child and increases the parents’ risk of developing a substance use disorder. Greater awareness and regular screening of both parents for postpartum depression limit the danger to the family.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction and depression, we can help. Recovery Ways is a premier drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility located in Salt Lake City, Utah. We have the resources to effectively treat a dual diagnosis. Our mission is to provide the most cost-effective, accessible substance abuse treatment to as many people as possible. Request information online or call us today at 1-888-986-7848.
