New dads and partners: looking after your mental health
Signs to watch for and where to get support.
It is common
About 1 in 10 new fathers experience depression or anxiety in the year after birth. It can look like irritability, working longer hours, drinking more or pulling away.
Small things help
Sleep when you can, keep moving, eat regular meals and stay connected with friends.
Where to get help
Talk to your GP. PANDA (1300 726 306) and MensLine Australia (1300 78 99 78) support dads and partners. If you feel unsafe, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
General information only, checked against Australian government and peak-body sources. Talk to your GP, midwife or child health nurse about your situation.