Andrew Mayers
Dr Andrew Mayers is a Principal Academic at Bournemouth University, UK. In addition to conducting research, he campaigns for better perinatal mental health services for mothers and fathers. He acts as an advisor for several local and national charities.
Fathers’ mental health: why is it important?
Changes in mothers' mental health during the perinatal period have been well studies, while fathers' mental health during the same often-difficult period has not received as much attention, despite the many ways that fathers' mental health challenges can affect the whole family. In honor of International Fathers Mental Health Day today, the author of two recent papers on fathers' mental health, published in BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, discusses some of the ways that fathers need mental health support for their own wellbeing and that of their partners and children.
Putting fathers’ mental health into perspective
Becoming a father is an extremely important life event for a man. Fathers can experience new emotions, feelings, and changes initiated by the transition into parenthood. Some evidence shows that around 10% of new fathers experience depression, and yet this is still little understanding about this let alone appropriate support. Most new mothers perceive the father to be a crucial source of support. Poor paternal support can exacerbate maternal mental health problems. However, many fathers feel alienated and have little knowledge about how they can support their partner at this time.
No hay comentarios:
Publicar un comentario