Dads Mental Health Support
There are several reasons why men may struggle with opening up about their mental health struggles.
Men are often expected to be strong and self-reliant, and expressing vulnerability or seeking help for mental health issues can be seen as a sign of weakness. If individuals do not have positive role models in their lives who have been open about their mental health struggles, it can be difficult for them to know how to talk about their own experiences.
Symptoms of Depression to look out for:
These symptoms may vary for each individual and may include:
- Feeling sad, guilty or confused
- Feeling more emotional
- Experiencing fatigue or low mood
- Lacking appetite or overeating
- Lacking concentration
- Lack of enjoyment
- Insomnia or nightmares
- Worrying all the time
- Withdrawing from your friends and family
- Short tempered or easily irritated
Dads Mental Health
Dads may be afraid of being judged or stigmatised for having mental health issues, and may worry that it will negatively impact their relationships or career.
With limited access to mental health support, they may not recieve resources or information about mental health that are tailored to their specific needs, making it difficult for them to know where to turn for help.
It is important to note that these reasons are not unique to Dads, and that anyone can feel the same way.
Creating a safe space to open up can relieve emotional stress, improve relationships with their partner and children, and boost overall wellbeing.
It’s important for dads to know that seeking support for perinatal mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that getting the help they need can have a positive impact on their own well-being as well as the well-being of their family
Prenatal Depression & Anxiety
Finding out you are expecting a child can bring a bag of emotions and fears. However, you know your body best, and you’ll know if the feelings you are experiencing may be something more. Even if you are just questioning how you feel at this time, please seek medical advice or contact a support service.
The best support you can get is turning to friends and family. Be honest about how you are feeling.
- Access local support services
- Attend support groups specifically for Dads
- Ask your midwife or health visitor or go and see your GP
Mothers Matter offer local support to parents during pregnancy through to parenthood
Some ways to support your health and wellbeing include:
Listening Opportunities
Counselling
Local Groups
Online Forums
Befriending Services
Pregnancy Hubs
Antenatal Classes
Workshops
- Practising Self Care - some actions which may help include going for a walk, reframing thoughts and behaviours, putting aside time for you, spending time with friends and family
- Medication - if you have exhausted other options first, and its safe for you to take.
Contact Mothers Matter
If you feel you may benefit from any of our services, then please contact Mothers Matter:
Mothers Matter
Unit 2 Crown Buildings,
Tonypandy CF40 1QF
Monday – Friday 9.30am – 5.30pm
Saturday 9.30am – 2pm
Call: 01443 548590
How can we help?
Feel free to ask a question or simply leave a comment.