What are the Signs of Postpartum Depression in Men?

Signs of postpartum depression in men are typically much different from those that appear in women with the disorder. The most common symptoms involve loss of self-control with regards to lifestyle habits and anger management as well as loss of interest in many social aspects of life. Postpartum depression in men can also by displayed by a decrease in feelings of self-worth, as well as general feelings of fatigue and ill health.

One of the key factors that signals the presence of postpartum depression in men revolves around a lack of both physical and mental power. Otherwise average men will often be led to develop riskier behaviors, such as driving too fast or driving recklessly. They may also experience the urge to drink excessively or abuse prescription or non-prescription drugs. A smoking habit is likely to develop or increase. Postpartum depression in men can also lead to other risky lifestyle changes, including over- or under-eating.

Anger management issues in men with postpartum depression may lead to elevated levels of irritability and frustration. Postpartum depression in men may also cause erratic spikes in temper control, at times leading to violent outbursts and loss of rational thinking ability. This particular symptom is not only dangerous to the person experiencing the syndrome, but it can also be harmful to those around him, such as the wife and child.

When it comes to social aspects in life, postpartum depression in men often impedes or removes the desire to interact with others, both on a professional and personal level. This may lead to strained relationships, both at work and at home, as well as serious problems when trying to communicate feelings that have arisen from the depression. Hobbies and pastimes also tend to suffer dramatically while the depression is present, further creating a sense of isolation and disassociation.

The decrease in social skills that may result from postpartum depression in men can also impair the man's sense of self-worth, gradually diminishing the ego and causing him to question his overall role in the family. Men may begin to feel they are not doing enough to support the family, both emotionally and financially. In turn, this may either lead to a drastic push to overachieve or a feeling of worthlessness that may further feed the depression and potentially lead to thoughts of death and suicide.

The physical aspect of postpartum depression in men is commonly aggravated by the risky behaviors mentioned earlier. Both smoking and drinking can lead to a decline in overall health, while reckless behavior can put a person at greater risk for accident or injury overall. Deflated ego and decreased self-worth will often lead to a loss of appetite or the desire to overeat, with both examples, of course, being potentially detrimental to overall health. These elements combined may also trigger other conditions, such as constant fatigue, stomach problems, high blood pressure, or decrease in the immune system's ability to fight general diseases.