Increased mental health supports are needed for men struggling with their emotional well-being after becoming fathers, a study has found.

The report, which was published in BMJ Open, says health services should address men's well-being concerns as they transition into parenthood.

A number of issues were cited in the report, including confusion over their identity as provider or protector, feeling left out and undervalued and struggling with the masculine ideals of fatherhood.

On Lunchtime Live, From Lads to Dads founder Dave Saunders said there is "nothing" to support dads during the newborn period.

"There are no services tailored to support dads," Mr Saunders said.

From Lads to Dads

From Lads to Dads offers fathers and future fathers peer-to-peer support on coping with the transition to parenthood.

Mr Saunders said many new dads don't speak about the mental health issues they may be experiencing.

"[The report is] saying up to 1 in 10 dads could suffer from post-natal depression," he said. 

"A lot of dads don't come forward and talk about it but they can suffer from trauma and anxiety."

Depression

Psychiatrist Brendan Kelly said society is "slower" to recognise the challenges men face when they become parents.

“There is a growing recognition that it is a difficult time for men, not as difficult as it is for women, but it is different because there are different stresses on men," Dr Kelly said.

"The depression response tends to be a bit later at three to six months after the birth because men tend to be a bit better at doing tasks but struggle with the overall adjustment.

"The biggest deficit is preparing for the change in the relationship that comes with a child."

Advice

Dr Kelly said the HSE website has guidance on mental health during parenthood.

He encouraged new dads to seek out initiatives like From Lads to Dads.

The psychiatrist also said it was important for men to express their feelings in different ways.

"Men, we express our feelings all the time, but we don’t always do it using words," he said.

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Feature image by Alamy.