New Delhi, March 30 (IANS). The sound of a new guest in the house is considered to remove all troubles and problems. Newborns are a symbol of the influx of happiness in a deserted courtyard! These days we often hear about ‘postpartum blues’ of new moms. This is also mentioned a lot on different forums. But apart from this, we forget the father who himself is trying to adapt to the changes in his life.
A new study has thrown light on the hidden mental pressure of men. This research, recently published in ‘JAMA Network Open’, states that not immediately after the birth of the child, but within about a year, the father’s mental health is adversely affected, and during this time the risk of depression and stress-related problems increases by more than 30 percent.
This study was conducted in Sweden, in which data of about 10 lakh (more than one million) men (fathers) were analyzed. This research conducted on such a large scale made it clear that fathers appear relatively stable in the initial months because at that time their attention is completely focused on taking care of the mother and the newborn. They often ignore their fatigue, stress and emotional pressure.
But as time passes, responsibilities increase and mental pressure also gradually makes a home in some corner of the mind. According to research, the period 9 to 12 months after childbirth is the most sensitive. During this period, lack of sleep persists, it becomes difficult to balance between work and family, financial pressure increases and relationships also change. The combined effect of all these has on the mental health of the father, which manifests in the form of depression or stress disorder.
The study also shows that fathers often do not talk openly about their mental condition. Due to social pressure and tendency to hide their feelings, they avoid seeking help, due to which the problem remains unrecognized until it becomes serious. This is the reason why the need for awareness and support system regarding father’s mental health is being continuously felt.
–IANS
kr/