Dads tackle paternal perinatal depression with football game

East London dads are hitting the pitch for weekly football sessions to tackle paternal depression and adjust to life as new parents. Held at Becontree Health Leisure Centre, these sessions offer a mix of fitness and mental health support, providing a safe space for dads to talk about their feelings.

Perinatal depression, which can affect dads too, often involves feelings of anxiety and sadness during or after a partner’s pregnancy. Through football, these dads connect, release stress, and leave with tools to support themselves and their families.

Good on you, chaps.

What is paternal perinatal depression?

Perinatal paternal depression refers to depression experienced by fathers during their partner's pregnancy or in the first year after the baby is born.

It happens due to a range of factors, including the stress of new responsibilities, changes in relationship dynamics, sleep deprivation, and financial or work-related pressures.

Many fathers also feel overwhelmed or anxious about their new role, which can contribute to emotional struggles.

Studies suggest that around 25% of new dads experience perinatal depression, highlighting how common it is.

What are the symptoms of paternal perinatal depression?

It's important to recognize the signs of paternal perinatal depression, whether you’re noticing them in yourself or a loved one. Understanding these symptoms can be a crucial step toward getting the help needed, as it’s common for fathers to experience emotional struggles during the perinatal period.

Paying close attention to the following signs can make a difference:

• Persistent sadness or low mood: Feeling down or hopeless most days.

• Loss of interest in activities: No longer enjoying things you once found fulfilling or fun.

• Fatigue or low energy: Constantly feeling tired, even after a good night's sleep.

• Changes in appetite: Eating much more or much less than usual.

• Difficulty bonding with the baby: Feeling disconnected from your child or uncertain about your role as a father.

• Irritability or anger: Becoming easily frustrated or quick to anger.

• Withdrawal from loved ones: Avoiding family, friends, or social gatherings.

• Feelings of inadequacy or guilt: Constantly worrying that you’re not a good enough father or partner.

• Disturbed sleep: Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much, even when the baby is sleeping well.

• Difficulty concentrating: Finding it hard to focus on tasks or make decisions.

If any of these symptoms resonate with you, it doesn’t mean you’re officially diagnosed with paternal perinatal depression, but it may be worth seeking further guidance. Contact a mental health professional for support, and remember, you’re not alone in this.

How can I get involved?

If you're in the London area, contact them on Facebook to get involved.

Not local? What’s stopping you from setting up something like this in your own area? It only takes a few social media posts to get the ball rolling, literally.

If football/soccer isn’t your thing, why not chess boxing. Lol.

If you want to learn more about perinatal depression, be sure to check out our blog which goes in-depth on the subject.