Male Postpartum Depression: Signs, Treatment, Practical Tips & More

Male postpartum depression—also called paternal postpartum depression or PPD in men—is a real and often overlooked mental health condition.

Can men go through postpartum? While postpartum is typically associated with women after birth, research shows that many fathers also experience significant emotional struggles during the perinatal period.

This article explores the question “Can men have PPD?”, the signs of postpartum depression in dads, what causes it, how it differs from maternal PPD, and the most effective ways to support recovery.

Can Men Get Postpartum Depression?

Can dads get postpartum depression?

Yes, absolutely. Postpartum depression for men is a real mental health condition.

Studies estimate that 1 in 10 new fathers experience depressive symptoms after the birth of a child.

Male postpartum depression is more than just stress or tiredness—it’s a serious mood disorder that can impact parenting, relationships, and long-term well-being if left untreated.

Paternal postnatal depression often develops gradually, sometimes peaking months after delivery, especially when the focus is solely on the baby and mother.

6 Signs of Postpartum Depression in Men

Can dads have postpartum depression? Yes, they can. Here are six signs that may indicate father postpartum depression.

1. Irritability and Anger

Instead of appearing sad, men with PPD often express distress through irritability, mood swings, or sudden outbursts of anger.

This emotional reactivity can affect relationships and even parenting interactions.

2. Detachment or Withdrawal

Some men feel emotionally numb, disconnected from their partner or baby, or uninterested in daily life.

This sense of detachment is one of the most common male postpartum depression symptoms.

3. Physical Complaints

Headaches, digestive issues, muscle tension, and other vague physical symptoms can be expressions of untreated emotional distress.

These signs of postpartum depression in dads are sometimes misattributed to other causes.

4. Substance Use or Avoidance Behaviors

Men may increase alcohol intake, gaming, or work hours as a way to numb or avoid difficult emotions when suffering from dad postpartum depression.

This may offer short-term relief, but ultimately worsens mental health and delays recovery.

5. Anxiety or Panic

Paternal postpartum depression often overlaps with anxiety disorders.

New dads may experience constant worry, panic attacks, or an overwhelming fear of failing their family.

6. Changes in Sleep or Appetite

Significant changes in eating or sleep habits—unrelated to the baby’s schedule—can also be warning signs of husband postpartum depression.

Why Do Men Get Postpartum Depression?

There are several contributing factors that can lead to male postpartum depression.

Partner With Postpartum Depression

When a mother experiences postpartum depression, the risk of PPD in men significantly increases.

Mental health can be contagious in close relationships, especially during the stress of new parenthood.

Sleep Deprivation

Chronic exhaustion impairs emotional regulation, weakens coping ability, and amplifies existing vulnerabilities.

New dads often underestimate the impact of long-term sleep loss.

History of Mental Illness

A personal or family history of depression, anxiety, or trauma can lead to a greater risk of postpartum in men.

Even if symptoms were previously well-managed, the hormonal and life changes of fatherhood can resurface old patterns.

Relationship Tension

Conflict with a partner, lack of intimacy, or feeling excluded from parenting roles can contribute to emotional distress.

Communication breakdowns are common in the early months and can deepen feelings of isolation.

Financial or Role Pressure

Men often report intense pressure to provide, protect, and perform perfectly in their new role.

Unrealistic expectations from themselves or others can contribute to male PPD.

Postpartum in Men vs. Women: What’s Different?

Although both men and women can experience postpartum depression, the way it shows up may look very different.

Women may display more obvious sadness, crying, or self-blame.

In contrast, men often present with irritability, avoidance, and physical complaints.

Men may also delay seeking help due to social stigma or a belief that their struggles are less valid.

Hormonal shifts in testosterone, cortisol, and estrogen have also been linked to paternal postnatal depression, though less researched than maternal hormone changes.

How to Help Someone Struggling With Male Postpartum Depression

If you know a man suffering from male postpartum depression, there are several ways in which you can help.

Start With Compassionate Conversation

Approach your partner or loved one with empathy, not judgment.

Use language like, “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed really overwhelmed lately—want to talk about it?” rather than pointing out flaws.

Encourage Professional Support

Let them know that PPD in men is real and treatable.

Suggest they talk to a mental health provider or take a confidential online screening, like Brightside’s depression test.

Support Healthy Habits

Help your partner get outside, eat nourishing meals, and take small breaks from parenting duties.

Even short walks or 10 minutes of quiet can help regulate mood.

Reduce Isolation

Fathers benefit from peer support too.

Look for online or local support groups for new dads or parent-focused mental health resources.

Feeling less alone often kickstarts healing.

Share the Load

Offer help without waiting to be asked.

Even small gestures—like handling a night feeding or prepping a meal—can ease stress and show that they’re not alone.

Take the Brightside Depression Test Today

If you’re a new dad feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or emotionally stuck, you’re not alone—and help is available. The answer to the question “Can men experience postpartum depression?” is yes. Brightside’s free, clinically validated Depression Test offers a quick, confidential way to check in on your mental health.

You’ll get instant results and personalized next steps from expert providers who understand how depression shows up in men. Whether it’s talk therapy, medication, or both, Brightside can help you feel like yourself again—all from home.

Whether you need to consider Zoloft for depression or other types of medication, or receive guidance about depression and sleep, Brightside is here for you. Take the Depression Test today, and start on your path to better mental health.

Key Takeaways About Men & Postpartum Depression

Male postpartum depression is common, real, and treatable.

Though symptoms may look different than those in women, the emotional pain can be just as serious.

Understanding the signs of postpartum depression in dads, addressing root causes like sleep loss or isolation, and encouraging compassionate support can make a lasting difference.

Left unaddressed, male PPD affects fathers, partners, and children—but with help, recovery is possible.

FAQs

How long can men have postpartum depression for?

Paternal postpartum depression can last from several weeks to more than a year.

Symptoms often peak between 3 and 6 months after childbirth but may continue if left untreated.

Early intervention with therapy, lifestyle changes, or medication leads to faster recovery.

Can men get PPD before their baby is born?

Yes, men can experience depression during their partner’s pregnancy.

This is sometimes called antenatal or prenatal depression.

Stress about finances, fatherhood, or relationship changes can all contribute to emotional struggles even before the baby arrives.

What is postpartum psychosis? Does it affect men?

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe mental health condition involving hallucinations, delusions, and confusion.

It most often affects women, especially those with a history of bipolar disorder.

While extremely rare in men, severe psychiatric symptoms after childbirth should always be taken seriously and assessed by a professional.