Fathers in crisis: urgent attention to mental health!

Fathers in crisis: urgent attention to mental health!

On Father's Day today, the Austrian Society for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics (ÖGPP) is addressing the often underestimated mental health of fathers. During the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy and the first year after birth, numerous studies show that fathers are at increased risk of mental illness. Up to 10% of fathers develop depressive symptoms during this sensitive phase, with the risk of anxiety disorders and suicidal thoughts also being significantly increased. The ÖGPP calls for greater focus on this problem in society and for fathers to be specifically involved in prevention and care offerings in order to create a culture in which men can talk about mental stress.

The risk factors for depressive illnesses and suicidality in fathers are diverse. These include, among other things, previous psychiatric illnesses, tensions in relationships, financial stress and professional insecurities. The changing role of fathers in diversified family structures is particularly challenging. These changes, coupled with the high hurdle men often have to overcome when naming mental health issues, mean that many fathers suffer with their mental health without seeking help. Studies also show that unrecognized psychosocial suffering significantly increases the risk of suicide in fathers, especially in the early phase of fatherhood.

Postpartum depression in fathers

The problem of postpartum depression (PPD) affects not only mothers, but also fathers. It is estimated that PPD affects approximately five percent of fathers. One example is Jan, a 33-year-old father who experienced emotional distress, including sleep deprivation and stress, following the birth of his son. While his partner suffers from postpartum depression, Jan is also diagnosed with PPD, which shows how closely the mental health of both partners is linked. This confirms research that shows fathers' risk of developing the disease increases if their partner is also affected, with 24 to 50% of fathers with depressed partners also developing PPD.

The course of PPD can occur months after birth and is often expressed in excessive demands and distance from the child. In her studies, Prof. Sarah Kittel-Schneider from the University Hospital of Würzburg found that the testosterone level in fathers drops by 30 percent after giving birth. This decline can lead to a closer bond with the family, but at the same time poses a risk of developing depression. Although there are only a few specific offers for affected fathers, psychiatric specialists and university hospitals are trying to expand their programs.

Social stigma and its influence on children

Social stigma and the associated shame, which often prevents men from seeking help, compound the problem. Jan, who has had this experience, encourages other fathers to talk openly about their challenges and to take advantage of support services. It is important to emphasize that untreated PPD can have negative effects on children's development, including emotional attachment disorders, highlighting the need for effective support and education about paternal psychological distress.

Science shows that children of affected fathers are at higher risk of social and emotional changes, including behavioral problems and school problems. The subjective experience of being overwhelmed has a significant impact on the emotional development of the next generation. Trained specialists must therefore be able to ask how fathers are feeling and include them in the treatment process.

In light of the latest findings, it is crucial to further expand research on mental illness in postpartum fathers and to focus more attention on the specific support needs of this parent. Only in this way can the mental health of fathers be given the necessary attention in order to enable them and their families to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Further information about mental health for fathers can be found on the websites of ots.at, zdfheute.de and postpartum-depression.ch be read.