Dads Get Postpartum Depression Too: Cinergy Health
Certainly, most people have heard about postpartum depression. They assume, however, that only women can be afflicted with this depression. A new study from the Journal of American Medical Association shows that dads can have postpartum depression as well. The study, with lead author James Paulson of the department of pediatrics at Eastern Virginia Medical School, shows that about 10% of men actually have prenatal and postpartum depression.
The study also found an association between the mother’s depression and the father’s, so that when the mother was more depressed, the father was as well. Rates of fathers’ depression were higher in the United States, at about 14%, while rates abroad were at about 8%. Paulson found, as well, that most of the depression occurred 3-6 month after the baby’s birth.
Certainly, if you are a man who has recently had a baby and are feeling depressed, or if you are a new mom and you notice depression in your husband, you should seek medical attention. Speak with your health care company, such as Cinergy Health, or with your primary care physician to get the help you need.


