Depression hit me out of nowhere after baby #2

3d ago1 min read

I thought I was just tired. It's been 4 months and I'm still exhausted all the time. Nothing sounds fun anymore. I used to love playing guitar and going to the gym but now I just feel empty. My wife is worried. I snapped at my oldest yesterday over something stupid and felt terrible. Made an appointment with my doctor this week because I think something is actually wrong with me, not just being sleep deprived. Has anyone been through postpartum depression as a dad? I feel like this isn't talked about enough.

6 comments172 views

Comments(6)

EEli L.Regular3d ago

I get the exhaustion piece. Honestly, I found that even small things like doing laundry became this one thing I could control, which helped my headspace a bit. Point is, there's usually something that can help break the cycle if you're willing to reach out.

RRobert T.Regular3d ago

Man, that exhaustion hitting 4 months in is real. I felt something similar after our second and it took me a bit to realize it wasn't just the usual new baby tired. Have you talked to your doc about it? That lost interest in stuff you loved is worth getting checked out.

GGarrett M.New Dad3d ago

The fact that you're noticing the pattern with guitar and other stuff is actually good - that awareness matters. With three kids I've had my share of rough stretches, but leaning on your person and being honest about what's going on made a huge difference for me.

JJason T.Regular3d ago

Please reach out to someone about this. Sleep deprivation messes with your head in ways that don't get better on their own. Your family wants you healthy.

CChris M.Regular2d ago

PPD is no joke man. I went through something similar after baby number two and thought it was just the exhaustion too. Getting help changed everything. You're not alone in this.

MMichaelRegular2d ago

Four months in and still exhausted - have you talked to your doctor about this? Because what you're describing sounds like it could be postpartum depression, which is real and treatable. Totally worth getting checked out.