Do Men suffer from Postpartum Depression?
A fall in testosterone levels in men after a partner giving birth is a proposed mechanism for postpartum depression in men.
Studies show that up to ten percent of men suffer from symptoms of depression within a year after childbirth.
While the term 'postpartum depression' in men is not recognized by the DSM as a separate and isolated form of depression, the symptoms are very real and require treatment, just as they would for a woman suffering postpartum symptoms.
Postpartum depression simply means symptoms of major depressive disorder within a year of having a child, which are persistent and interfere with social and occupational functioning.
Symptoms of postpartum depression in men include:
- Numbness
- Withdrawal/loss of engagement
- Irritability
- Low mood
- Inability to connect or bond with the child
- Loss of interest in intimacy
- Feelings of guilt and shame
- Negative thoughts about self
- Feelings of anger and resentment
- Loss of interest in career
- Sometimes sleep and appetite disturbance
Postpartum depression in men was not previously thought to be caused by hormone shifts like in women. However, newer studies show that testosterone levels drop in men after the birth of a child. Significant falls in testosterone levels can rapidly increase the risk of depressive symptoms.
Ultimately, men also experience hormone changes after the birth of a child, which can increase the risk of the onset of depression.
Fathers play a crucial role in nurturing older children when their mothers are busy with a new baby. When both parents are struggling, older children can be particularly affected. It is easy to assume that children are acting out because they are jealous of the new baby. However, it may be the change in parental mood and behavior that is causing them distress.
Ultimately, it is as important for men suffering from postpartum depressive symptoms to get treatment as it is for women. Failure to do so leads to:
- Higher risk of divorce and separation
- Difficulty bonding with the child or children
- Increased risk of domestic violence
- Increased risk of substance abuse
- Failure to take care of health
- Loss of job or career progression
- Chronic or persistent depression
Treatment of postpartum depression in men often involves a combination of therapy and medication management. Some studies have shown supplements to be useful for the treatment of depression. Likewise, exercise and alternative treatments such as yoga and meditation have been shown to have benefits.
To learn more about the treatment of postpartum depression in men, visit our website at https://gabapsychiatrist.com/postpartum-depression/?utm_source=Reddit&utm_medium=Post&utm_campaign=MenPPD
Posted Jun 18, 2026, 2:11 PM UTC