Hi Jimmy,
Thanks for your courage in speaking out about a subject that is so important. Having a baby is an exciting, wondrous time. It is also potentially scary, difficult and anxiety provoking. You are suddenly responsible for a new life, relationships change, sleep deprivation kicks in and before you know it you need help that you never envisaged you might need. It sounds like you had a tremendously difficult transition to fatherhood… but you are not alone, 1 in 10 fathers in Australia experience postnatal depression!
Your message is incredibly important – talking through concerns with a trusted friend, family member or health professional can make a huge difference to a person’s mental health. It can also lead to connecting with specially trained professionals who can help manage the illness. Making an appointment with a GP is a great starting point.
Jimmy, if even one father benefits from your experience it will be a great outcome. Thank you. If you, or anyone on the forums wants to talk about fathering and any distress or challenges they may be facing please consider phoning the PANDA National Perinatal Depression Helpline. We would welcome the opportunity to support you during this transition.
PANDA National Perinatal Depression Helpline 10am – 5pm Mon-Fri 1300 726 306
www.panda.org.au; www.howisdadgoing.org.au
Good on you Jimmy.
The PANDA Team
