Mental Health for Dads: During Pregnancy and the Perinatal Period

Dad Matters, powered by Home-Start, know that becoming a dad is one of the biggest life changes you’ll ever experience. While it can be exciting, it can also feel overwhelming - and that’s normal. 

Your mental health matters, not only for you but for your partner, your baby, and your whole family. 

Why does dad’s mental health matter? 

When dads are supported, families thrive. Research shows that around 1 in 10 dads experience depression during the perinatal period (pregnancy and the first year after birth), and many more struggle with stress, anxiety, or exhaustion. 

👉 Did you know? 
When dads have good mental wellbeing, it positively influences their baby’s emotional development and strengthens the whole family’s resilience. 

What might I be feeling? 

It’s common for dads to feel: 

Anxious about money, housing, or job security 

Unsure about how to support their partner 

Left out or “on the side lines” 

Tired, stressed, or overwhelmed by new responsibilities 

Low in mood or detached from the baby 

Sometimes these feelings pass. But if they’re ongoing or getting worse, it could be a sign you need extra support. And that’s okay. 

How can I look after my mental health? 

Taking care of yourself is not selfish - it’s essential.  

You could try: 

  • Talking about how you feel – whether with your partner, a friend, or a professional.
  • Resting when you can – even short naps can help when nights are tough.
  • Eating well and staying active – small, steady habits boost energy and mood.
  • Spending time with your baby – even a few minutes of cuddles, skin-to-skin, or play can lift your mood.
  • Connecting with other dads – hearing “me too” can make a big difference. 

New dads checklist: 

  1. Have I had at least one honest conversation about how I’m feeling this week?
  2. Did I take a short break just for myself today?
  3. Have I connected with another dad, friend, or family member?
  4. Did I do something active or outdoors, even for 10 minutes? 
What if I’m struggling with my mental health? 

You are not alone. Many dads experience difficult feelings before and after the birth of their baby. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

Where can I find support? 

Dad Matters resources – support and information for dads in the perinatal period. 

Support for Men’s Mental Health in the UK 

  • Dad Matters – support for dads in the perinatal period – find your local project here (link title to find support page and local project to map page) 

  • Movember UK - campaigns and resources focused on men’s mental wellbeing. 

  • Andy’s Man Club – peer-to-peer support groups for men, running across the UK every Monday evening. 

  • Brooks Men’s Wellbeing – resources around men’s health and wellbeing (sexual health, relationships, mental health). 

  • Men’s Health Forum – UK charity providing information and resources on men’s health, including mental wellbeing. 

  • Mentell – Provides safe, confidential spaces for men to talk, free from judgment. Offers both online and face-to-face group sessions. 

  • Directions for Men – Runs support groups across the North West of England, helping men talk through challenges and improve wellbeing. 

Other Support Directories  

  • Hub of Hope – A UK-wide mental health support database, run by Chasing the Stigma. You can enter your postcode to find local services, from crisis support to community groups. 

Crisis Support in the UK 

  • NHS 111 – for urgent but not emergency mental health support. 

  • Samaritans – 24/7 free support for anyone in distress: call 116 123 or visit samaritans.org. 

  • Shout – free, confidential 24/7 text support service: text SHOUT to 85258. 

  • Emergency – if you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E. 

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