Support for expecting dads
Pregnancy can be an exciting and challenging time for all parents. We’re here to help.
Dads can be affected by antenatal anxiety and depression too.
Up to 1 in 10 expecting dads experience antenatal anxiety or depression before their baby is born.
Mental health challenges can affect: Your enjoyment of pregnancy, Your bond with your baby, our ability to function in daily life.
Reaching out for help or seeking treatment or advice from a health care provider can help you adjust to the changes of parenthood and really enjoy life with your new baby.
On this page you’ll find information, articles and stories to help you look after yourself.
Articles
Information for expecting dads
Stories
Real life experiences from expecting dads
Mental Health Checklist
How are you going?
Every Dad's experience of pregnancy, birth and parenting is unique and brings different rewards and challenges.
Complete our online mental health checklist to see if what you're experiencing or observing in a loved one could be a reason to seek help.
PANDA National Helpline
Find someone to talk to, Monday to Saturday.
1300 726 306
Call 000 for police and ambulance if you or someone else are in immediate danger
Talk with friends or family
Consider talking about how you are feeling with someone you trust. This might be a friend or family member. Once you starting talking you might be surprised at how many others have had similar experiences and the support they can provide you.
Talk with your doctor
Talking with your doctor can be an important step to getting the help you need. They should be able to give you non-judgemental support, assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing care and treatment. They can also refer you to specialists such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Get help now
If you are having suicidal thoughts or are feeling disorientated it’s important to get help immediately. PANDA is not a crisis service, if you need immediate support call Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7).