One in 10 new fathers say they feel low, anxious or depressed after having a baby – and in reality the figure is probably higher.
We’ve been supporting dads for over a decade. Some are experiencing their own mental health difficulties or are dealing with trauma related to the birth of their child. Others may be struggling to support a partner who’s unwell. Sometimes, both parents might be finding it hard to adapt to their new lives with a baby.
Our Dads in Mind service offers vital one-to-one support over the phone, text and online. There are also opportunities to meet face-to-face for support – a walk in the park, for example, can be a great chance to offload and get fresh air and exercise at the same time.
Dads looking for group support can get together online, while Bluebell Place provides an ideal venue for face-to-face group meet ups. Here, comfy sofas and free pizza create a safe, relaxed atmosphere. A member of our team leads informal discussions about coping strategies and self care. Dr Karl Scheeres, a Bluebell trustee, often comes along to offer information about perinatal mental health. Dads share their experiences, listen to others and give each other vital moral support.
We work in partnership with Vitaminds to deliver our Dads in mind services, to access these services you can make a referral here.
You can also read more about what we're doing to make sure everyone feels welcome.
