Experts warn that Dads can suffer baby blues too

Postnatal depression is most commonly associated with women, but now experts are strongly recommending new dads should be screened too.  A new study from Canada's McGill University suggests that up to 13 per cent of men suffer depression symptoms after the birth of a child. A total of 622 men were involved in the study, with 13.3 per cent admitting that they were having trouble coping and struggling with exhaustion, marital adjustment and financial stress.

According to Dr Deborah Da Costa, associate professor, McGill University:

'The mental health of men remains a neglected area of research and one that is not adequately addressed during the transition to parenthood.

'Highlighting these findings in Canada increases awareness in expectant parents, new parents, and importantly healthcare providers who are in contact with expectant couples during prenatal appointments.'

The Canadian research supports the findings of an earlier Irish study, which suggests one in ten Irish men suffer from post-natal depression. Interestingly, men who worked as chefs appeared to be more at risk than those who worked in more than 40 other professions.

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