Men can feel left out at the process of arrival of a new baby, because pregnancy and childbirth are integrally linked to the mother.

‘Having a new baby is a time of great adjustment for many parents, but anxiety can become a problem when it persists for extended periods and interferes with every day functioning.’

"Men can feel left out of the process, because pregnancy and childbirth are so integrally linked to the mother," said Dr Leach, from The Australian National University Centre for Aging, Health and Wellbeing. "It can compound the problem. They don't seek help, because they think 'it's not so much about me'." 




The causes of anxiety and depression around the arrival of a new baby are poorly understood. While results from individual studies vary, some studies suggest over 20 percent of parents suffer from anxiety or depression. The study has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Affective Disorders.
"Having a new baby is a time of great adjustment for many parents, and it is normal to be nervous, but anxiety can become a problem when it persists for extended periods and interferes with every day functioning," Dr Leach said.
Symptoms of anxiety can include worrying or feeling keyed up much of the time, feeling irritable, and fears for the baby's safety. Physical symptoms can include a racing heart, feeling sweaty, poor sleep and poor appetite.
There is good help available and people should in the first instance contact their GP, Dr Leach said. "Couples should be aware of their mental health right from when they realize they are pregnant. Early intervention reduces the severity and duration of symptoms."
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Source-Eurekalert