Postpartum depression is real for dads too

8h ago1 min read

Had our second kid four months ago and I've been struggling hard. Everyone asks how my wife is doing but nobody asks me. I feel numb and irritable. I love my kids but I don't feel connected to them yet. Scared to tell anyone because I'm supposed to be the strong one. Finally told my doctor and he didn't dismiss me which was good. On an SSRI now and starting to feel like myself. If you're a new dad and feeling off, it's not weakness. Get help.

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6 comments114 views

Comments(6)

RRexNew Dadjust now

Man, this hits different. I'm four months in with my second too and some days I just feel like I'm going through the motions. Nobody talks about this side of it. Thanks for putting this out there because I definitely needed to know I'm not alone in this.

KKevin M.Regular7h ago

I work crazy hours to keep things afloat but some nights I come home and just feel empty even though I should be grateful. Sounds like you might need to talk to a professional about this, not just internet strangers like us.

SSam Y.Regular7h ago

Man, I hear you. Nobody talks about this but it's real. Four months in with our second and I remember feeling that numbness too. Talking to someone actually helped me more than I expected, so if you haven't already maybe give that a shot.

WWill R.Regular7h ago

Thanks for posting this. Pizza night is the one thing that gets me out of my head some weeks, but I know that's not enough when you're really struggling. Have you been able to talk to your wife about how you're feeling?

CChris R.New Dadjust now

The expectation that dads just bounce back is rough. Everyone wants to know about mom and the baby but nobody checks on dad. Glad you're being honest about it. This needs to be normalized.

PPedroNew Dadjust now

Real talk: have you talked to your doctor about this? I was struggling after my first and thought it was just sleep deprivation, but turns out it was more. Getting help changed everything for me and my family. You deserve support too, not just your wife.