‘Post-natal’ depression in fathers, or Early Fatherhood Depression

Abstract

Both men and women are known to suffer from post-natal depression. However, there has been little attention paid to the psychodynamic genesis of post-natal depression in fathers. In this paper, I describe case histories of post-natal depression in two first time fathers and offer a formulation for understanding post-natal depression in such cases. I suggest a range of reasons for the failure to recognize this condition; and possible therapeutic interventions.

Keywords:

• fatherhood
• post-natal depression
• masculinity
• attachment
• gender role

Acknowledgments

I am grateful to Dr. Gwen Adshead, teacher and friend, who not only helped improve the clarity of the first draft, but also provided endless hours of discussion, and peer-supervision on parenting, so vital to our work with the Family Courts. This paper would not be possible without her unwavering support and help throughout my own journey into fatherhood. My most sincere gratitude also to the two anonymous reviewers whose astute observations, and thoughtful comments I have tried to incorporate as best as I could. Those invaluable comments have taught me much.

Notes

1. Fictitious name used to protect identity.