Lots of the studies that are used to talk about and treat depression in new parents looks at one parent, often the mother, in isolation. The authors of the study ‘Prevalence of Perinatal Depression and Anxiety in Both Parents’[1] wanted to review existing data to see how often both parents were experiencing depression, as this might result in significant changes to what will support those families.
They reviewed 23 studies, which includes almost 30,000 couples in total, and found that in around one to two couples in every 100, both parents experience perinatal depression.
Interestingly, they also discovered that the likelihood of both parents experiencing depression was slightly higher in the later postnatal period when their baby was aged between 3 and 12 months old, affecting up to 3.18% of the couples studied.
We think this is an important study to highlight because it reminds us that it is not just a brand-new mother who needs to be cared for and supported to identify the signs of depression. Knowing that experiencing postnatal depression with a slightly older baby is not unusual might help people feel they can reach out for help more easily.
If you are a father (or any gender non-birthing partner – although this role was not specifically studied in this analysis, your experience is important), it can also be harder to ask for help or even to identify what you are feeling.
This can feel especially true if your partner is experiencing perinatal depression, making you feel you need to be the solid support. In these cases, being aware of your own situation is so important, and if you start to struggle, knowing you are not alone in feeling that way might help when looking for support. In fact, another study suggests fathers are more likely to experience depression when the mother has experienced depression during pregnancy.[2]
Remember that it is okay to reach out for support and help even if your baby is older or your partner is already diagnosed. There is no cut-off date for getting support and if you are concerned, please let someone know. Keep this in mind when you’re thinking of your friends and family as well, and try to talk about it if you think knowing this would benefit them.
In the UK, the charity PANDAS is an incredible and supportive place to contact. They support all parents, no matter your gender or the age of your child, and have shared this information about their services with us:
PANDAS exists for all parents (mums and dads) and carers. If you are worried about anyone in that position, you can also contact them. You are NOT alone.
The phone line is open between 11am - 10pm. Please don’t hesitate to call.
If you'd prefer you can contact them via their text or email service.
To access free and anonymous text support, text the word ‘PANDAS’ to 85258 (this service is run in partnership with @giveusashoutinsta). This will not appear on phone bills, and you don’t need to register, download an app or use mobile data.
For their email service write to: info@pandasfoundation.org.uk
Feel free to write all your thoughts and feelings, and they will get back to you within 72 hours, often sooner.
Details of their in person and online support groups are on their website, along with details of all their services - Home page - PANDAS Foundation UK
References:
[1] Smythe K.L., Petersen I., and Schartau P. (2022) ‘Prevalence of Perinatal Depression and Anxiety in Both Parents: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis'. JAMA Netw Open. 5(6):e2218969. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.18969.
[2] Leung B.M., Letourneau N.L., Giesbrecht G.F., Ntanda H., and Hart M. (2017) ‘Predictors of Postpartum Depression in Partnered Mothers and Fathers from a Longitudinal Cohort’. Community Ment Health J. 53(4):420-431. doi: 10.1007/s10597-016-0060-0.