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Male Postpartum Depression Is Absolutely A Thing

  • Micah Shapiro
  • 6 days ago
  • 3 min read

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When we hear about postpartum depression, most of us think about new moms. But more and more, research shows that dads can also go through serious emotional struggles after their baby is born. Male postpartum depression (PPD) is real, but it’s often overlooked and misunderstood. Getting a better handle on why it happens—and breaking the silence around it—is key to helping families stay strong and supportive.


What Causes It?

Male postpartum depression isn’t just about hormone changes like in women. Instead, it usually comes from a mix of emotional, social, and biological factors. Namely:

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  1. Shifts in Identity and Role Expectations Becoming a dad is a huge change. Men often suddenly feel they need to be the provider, protector, and emotional rock. That kind of pressure, along with sleepless nights, money worries, and changing relationships, can make anyone feel overwhelmed and down.


  1. Hormonal and Brain Changes Research shows that men’s hormones can fluctuate too, with drops in testosterone and shifts in oxytocin and cortisol. These changes might affect mood and how connected they feel to their partner and baby, possibly leading to depression.


  2. Relationship Stress New parenthood can be tough on relationships. Less intimacy, more disagreements, and shifting priorities might leave dads feeling lonely or disconnected.


  3. Previous Mental Health Issues Men who’ve struggled with depression or anxiety before are more prone to postpartum depression. The stress of becoming a dad can bring those issues back.


  4. Lack of Awareness and Support Many men don’t even know they can get postpartum depression. Without the right words to express their feelings—or support to lean on—they might not realize what they’re going through or seek help.


Let’s Break the Stigma 

Even though we’re hearing more about it, male postpartum depression still carries a lot of shame. Traditional ideas about masculinity often tell men to ‘tough it out’ or ‘be strong,’ which makes asking for help harder. Here’s how we can start changing that:


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  • Start Talking About It Public health efforts, parenting classes, and doctors should include dads when discussing new parenthood. Making it normal encourages men to open up and feel less alone.


  • Support Routine Screenings for Dads Just like new moms are checked for postpartum mood issues, dads should be screened as well. Simple tools can help identify those who might be struggling and connect them to the care they need.


  • Build Peer Support Networks Support groups for fathers, online forums, and therapy circles give men safe spaces to share their experiences without feeling judged.


  • Change Outdated Ideas About Masculinity Talking about vulnerability as a sign of strength can help men feel more comfortable sharing their feelings.


Remember that male postpartum depression isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a normal response to one of life's biggest changes. The more we talk about it and understand it, the better we can support dads to heal, grow, and thrive.


Looking for a Postpartum Therapist in Des Plaines, IL Who Truly Understands Dads?


If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or not quite like yourself after becoming a father, you’re not alone—and you’re not failing. Male postpartum depression is real, and acknowledging that doesn’t make you weak. It makes you honest—and courageous. Working with a postpartum therapist in Des Plaines, IL can help you make sense of what you’re feeling, release the pressure to “tough it out,” and build a healthier path forward. Here’s how to take the first step:


  • Schedule an appointment with Shapiro Psychotherapy Associates PLLC.

  • Talk to someone who gets it—no judgment, just real support and validation.

  • Begin healing in a space where you can be honest, supported, and seen as both a parent and a person.


Other Services Offered by Shapiro Psychotherapy Associates, PLLC in Des Plaines, Illinois


At Shapiro Psychotherapy Associates PLLC, I provide a range of therapy services designed to support men navigating life transitions, emotional overwhelm, and identity shifts—especially during fatherhood. Whether you’re exploring Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), or therapy for self-esteem and confidence, we’ll work together to help you feel more grounded, supported, and understood.


With specialized training in evidence-based approaches and experience helping men through big emotional changes, I offer a space where you don’t have to have all the answers—just a willingness to talk, reflect, and move forward. If you're struggling with identity shifts, relationship stress, or simply feeling off after becoming a dad, you're not alone. Reach out today to start making sense of it all and reclaim your emotional footing.

 
 
 

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