When I tell people that I specialize in Perinatal Mental Health, the most common response that I hear is “Oh, so you work with women.” I take the opportunity to remind the person that men welcome babies into the world too, and men experience mental health dips during this time, just as women do. In fact, postpartum depression occurs for at least 1 of every 10 dads.
For almost 20 years, November has been widely known as “Movember” – the month to raise awareness for Prostate Cancer. In honour of Movember, I am dedicating all November blog posts to men’s mental health. Dads: we see you, we appreciate you, and we want you to know that you are important. Your mental health matters.
Being a dad is a major role in family life and in community. Unfortunately, lack of education around men’s mental health, and stigma against mental health struggles strongly impacts the chances that a dad will reach out for help. North American culture’s definition of masculinity includes drinking beer and driving faster when you’re stressed. “Bottle it up and put it away” is the message that men receive more often than not. This desperately needs to change.
When a baby is born, significant changes occur. How could they not? The family suddenly has an infant dependent on the parent(s) for survival. Where the couple once had opportunity to spend time with each other, and to emotionally invest in each other, now those moments are nigh impossible to find. Sleep is inconsistent at best, and stress levels are high. Top it all off with the very normal experience of anxious thoughts about the wellbeing of the baby, and you’ve got a perfect storm for a major drop in mental wellbeing. Both moms and dads experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, more commonly known as postpartum depression.
This month I will cover a wide range of topics, with all posts focusing on the mental wellbeing of dads. Some topics I’ll be covering in the next few days include how to handle the pressure of supporting your partner and family; tips for managing stress without substances; and how to find help when you are wondering if you need it. If you’re a dad or dad-to-be reading this blog, I would love to hear from you about what topics you want to read about.
Finally, if you are a dad who is struggling, and would like to talk to a professional, True Peace Counselling offers free consultations. I specialize in perinatal mental health, which is the mental health of those on the journey to or through early parenthood. Yes, this includes men, and you are very welcome to book a consultation*.
*This invitation extends to men in British Columbia due to interprovincial and international regulation differences. If you are not in BC, please reach out to a local counsellor for support.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute the advice or diagnosis of a medical doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. If you are concerned that you may have Perinatal/Postpartum Depression, or another Perinatal Mood or Anxiety Disorder, please contact a doctor or public health unit for assessment.
Kala McKenzie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in Victoria, British Columbia. She holds a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology, has specialized training in perinatal mental health, and is a member of the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. If you are an adult living in BC and interested in counselling with Kala, book a complimentary consultation here.
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