The mental health of new fathers is rarely assessed as part of ante- or postnatal care. With dads’ depression on the rise, this needs to change, finds Meredith Jones Russell

Around one in four women experiences mental health problems in pregnancy and during the 24 months after giving birth, with lack of access to mental health care during this perinatal period estimated to cost the NHS and social care £1.2 billion per year.

Meanwhile, 40 per cent of fathers report having concerns about their mental health during the perinatal period. Research is limited, but up to one in ten fathers were believed to be suffering from depression in a 2010 study. Fathers with mental health problems during the perinatal period are up to 47 times more likely to be classed as a suicide risk than at any other time.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here