Depression in Dads and Non-Birthing Partners
At Thrive Postpartum Couples & Family Therapy, we are here to support you on your journey towards emotional well-being, thriving fatherhood, and healthy family relationships.
Inner Harmony 〰️ Emotional Freedom 〰️ Self-Acceptance 〰️ Authentic Connection 〰️ Clarity of Mind 〰️ Emotional resilience 〰️ Wholeness
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Inner Harmony 〰️ Emotional Freedom 〰️ Self-Acceptance 〰️ Authentic Connection 〰️ Clarity of Mind 〰️ Emotional resilience 〰️ Wholeness 〰️
Supporting All Through The Transition To Parenthood
At Thrive Postpartum, Couples & Family Therapy, we support dads, non-birthing partners, and queer parents who may be experiencing emotional struggles after the birth of a baby. Whether you're feeling anxious, down, disconnected, or overwhelmed, your mental health matters—and your role in your child’s life is just as important. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Supporting Dads and Non-Birthing Partners Through the Transition to Parenthood
Becoming a parent is a profound life transition—often filled with joy, new responsibilities, and unexpected emotional challenges. While much of the focus is placed on the birthing parent, it’s important to recognize that dads, non-birthing partners, and queer parents can also experience mental health struggles during the prenatal and postpartum period.
Prenatal and postpartum depression in non-birthing partners is real, valid, and deserves compassionate support and effective care. At Thrive, we understand the unique emotional needs of non-birthing partners during this transformative time. Our therapists offer a safe and supportive space to process your experience, reduce distress, and feel more grounded in your role as a parent.
Our goal is to equip non-birthing partners, including dads and parents of all identities, with practical tools to manage and regulate their emotions. Through support and guidance, we aim to help each parent show up as their best self—for their own well-being, their partner, and their child.
“Our goal is to equip dads with valuable techniques and strategies that enable them to effectively manage and regulate their emotions. By providing support and guidance, we aim to help fathers show up as their best selves for their own well-being, their partners, and their children.”
The Impact of Postpartum Depression and Anxiety in Non-Birthing Partners
An estimated 8–10% of fathers experience postpartum depression, and up to 18% may develop a clinically significant anxiety disorder—such as generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—during pregnancy or within the first year after a child’s birth. These experiences are valid and increasingly recognized as critical components of perinatal mental health.
Sources: Paulson & Bazemore, 2010; Cameron et al., 2016; American Academy of Pediatrics, 2019
Why Are Some Non-Birthing Partners More Vulnerable to Postpartum Depression?
Factors that may increase risk include:
Personal or family history of mental health conditions
Relationship strain or conflict
Lack of emotional or practical support
Financial or work-related stress
Sleep deprivation and fatigue
Unmet or unrealistic expectations around parenthood
History of trauma or adverse childhood experiences
Health issues or complications during the pregnancy or birth
Awareness and early support can play a powerful role in promoting mental wellness and strengthening the co-parenting relationship.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Paternal Postpartum Depression:
Irritability, anger, or emotional numbness
Withdrawing from family or the baby
Persistent sadness or feeling overwhelmed
Trouble sleeping or feeling constantly tired
Increased substance use
Anxiety or panic
Feeling disconnected or like a failure as a parent
It’s important to remember that postpartum depression in non-birthing partners doesn’t just affect the individual—it can impact the entire family system. Recognizing and addressing these symptoms is a vital step toward supporting the emotional health of the parent, their partner, and their child.
You Matter, Too—Support for Non-Birthing Parents
You are not alone in what you’re experiencing.
Embrace Your Role As A Thriving Parent
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
You are not alone in your experience of paternal postpartum depression.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our specialized support for non-birthing parents. We're here to help you navigate this transformative time and feel more grounded, supported, and connected in your role as a parent.
Postpartum Support International Certification
To help promote high-quality care, our specialists are certified by Postpartum Support International, a leading organization that researches and advocates for women’s mental health and therapeutic intervention.
Additional Certifications