SINGAPORE – An Emerging Concern for Fathers

While postnatal depression is often linked to mothers, emerging evidence reveals that fathers are increasingly affected by this condition too. Mental health professionals note a significant uptick in the number of fathers in Singapore reaching out for support following the arrival of their children.

Clarity Singapore’s Initiative

Recognizing this urgent need, Clarity Singapore, a Catholic mental health charity, expanded its services in 2024 to specifically address paternal mental health issues. Senior counsellor Ms. Cindy Khong voiced concerns about the hormonal changes fathers can experience, which can mirror those of new mothers. Furthermore, the emotional burden can intensify if their partners are struggling with depression, resulting in decreased relationship satisfaction and inadequate spousal support.

Understanding the Overwhelm

Dr. Silvia Wetherell, a psychotherapist at Alliance Counselling, highlights how partners of mothers experiencing postpartum depression often feel overwhelmed and powerless. “They want to help but frequently find themselves in the dark about how to proceed,” she said. “The fear and isolation can be profound.”

Support Groups and Increased Resources

In response to the growing demand, Alliance Counselling has recruited a male counsellor dedicated to addressing the mental health of fathers and plans to launch a support group in 2025. The number of specialists on their team has dramatically increased, moving from three in 2021 to a robust ten by 2025.

Symptoms and Coping Mechanisms

Many fathers, while attending therapy sessions for their partners, are encouraged to seek help on their own. Clinical psychologist Ms. Radhika Haralalka from The Other Clinic pointed out that new fathers often face sleep deprivation, which significantly disrupts their mental well-being. “Even if they feel the transition has been smooth, the pressure of supporting their wives can be immense,” she explained.

Challenges for New Fathers

Fathers in Singapore face additional challenges, including limited paternity leave compared to maternity leave, making the balance between work and home life particularly difficult. This situation can lead to feelings of isolation, especially when the dynamics of marital communication shift after a baby arrives.

The Importance of Seeking Help

Counsellors strongly advise fathers going through this period to seek professional help. Symptoms of depression in men can manifest as irritability or rage, and many new fathers tend to withdraw socially or overwork themselves as a coping mechanism rather than seeking support.

Breaking the Stigma

To combat stigma, Clarity Singapore is dedicated to fostering open discussions around paternal mental health. Their upcoming podcast titled "The Birth Of A Mother" aims to bring to light the hidden pressures fathers face and emphasize the importance of seeking help.

Commitment to Support

Anne Pillai, executive director of Clarity Singapore, remarked, “We are committed to normalizing conversations about paternal mental health so fathers feel empowered to seek the support they need.”

A Step Towards Holistic Wellbeing

As societal perspectives on mental health continue to evolve, the acknowledgment that fathers can also experience postnatal depression marks a crucial step towards ensuring holistic family wellbeing.