Fathers’ depressive symptoms in the postnatal period: Prevalence and correlates in a population-based Swedish study
Abstract
Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and correlates of depression in new fathers. Methods: A population-based sample of 885 Swedish fathers and their partners completed a questionnaire, including the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale at three months postpartum. Correlates of depressive symptoms were analysed with univariate and multiple variable regression models. Results: Symptoms of depression were found in 6.3% of the fathers and 12.0% of the mothers, and the point prevalence of major depression in fathers was 1.3%. The strongest correlates of depressive symptoms in fathers were problems in the partner relationship, a low educational level, previous depression, stressful life events and low partner support. The cross-sectional design could affect the magnitude of the results, and causal inferences cannot be made. Conclusions: Although the rate of depressive symptoms is lower in fathers than in mothers at three months postpartum, the associated factors are similar to those found in studies of mothers. The first visits at the child health centre could include a discussion with both parents about normal transition problems; balancing work, personal and family needs; and distress. When signs of distress or partner relationship difficulties are picked up, this should be followed up and support interventions offered.
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Maternal postpartum depression is associated with depression in fathers.
“and depression in fathers.15”
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- Authors
- Massoudi, P., Hwang, C. P., & Wickberg, B.
- Affiliations
- Region Kronoberg (SE)
- University of Gothenburg (SE)
- Corresponding author
- Massoudi, Pamela
- Venue
- Scandinavian Journal of Public Health
- Publisher
- SAGE Publications
- Published
- 2016-09-25
- Volume
- 44
- Issue
- 7
- Pages
- 688-694
- ISSN
- 1403-4948 (ISSN-L)
- 1651-1905
- OpenAlex
- W2510126200
- Cited by
- 59
- References
- 29
- Citations by year
- 2026: 2 · 2025: 1 · 2024: 6 · 2023: 8 · 2022: 10 · 2021: 7 · 2020: 11 · 2019: 4 · 2018: 6 · 2017: 3 · 2016: 1
- FWCI
- 4.64
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- closed
- Locations
- Scandinavian Journal of Public Health (publishedVersion)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- Topics
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health › Maternal Mental Health During Pregnancy and Postpartum
- Social Sciences › Demography › Family Dynamics and Relationships
- Health Sciences › Health Professions › General Health Professions › Maternal and Neonatal Healthcare
- Keywords
- paternal depression, postpartum depression, depressive symptoms, fathers, prevalence, risk factors, partner support, life events, educational attainment, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, work-family balance
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