This week is Post Natal Depression Awareness Week. With 1800 Australians being diagnosed every week, it’s no surprise that Australian organisation’s such as PANDA (Post and Ante Natal Depression Association) have dedicated a week-long campaign to raise awareness in the community of this debilitating condition.
But what I am taking from this week is something unexpected.
PANDA suggests that 1 in 7 women and 1 in 14 men are diagnosed with post-natal depression (PND) annually.
Yes I said 1 in 14 men.
In fact, it is suggested that this figure could be actually be a lot higher because while men have a similar predisposition for developing PND as women, they are less likely to come forward for diagnosis and support.
In basic terms, this means there could be many dad’s out there either not understanding what they are feeling, or if they do, they may feel ashamed or worry about being considered less masculine if they put their hand up for help.
Alisha’s hubby J2 enjoying some play time with their 2 little ones
