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Child and Family Health Service
Acknowledgement
The Child and Family Health Service acknowledges Aboriginal people as the First Peoples and Traditional Custodians of Country throughout South Australia. We acknowledge and respect their ongoing and deep spiritual connection and relationship to land, air, sea, waters, community and country. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have passed away.

Becoming a Father

Dad and baby cu

Becoming a father is a unique experience. A new baby brings with it many changes and challenges and you need to balance caring for your baby, yourself and your relationship.

Becoming a Father

Becoming a father may feel overwhelming at first but there are many resources offering plenty of information and advice on sleeping, feeding, settling and playing that will assist you to adapt to the brand new experience of fatherhood.

Parenting Easy Guides

Videos

Mental Health

Depression in new fathers can begin during the pregnancy and increase after the birth of the child. Research has shown that depression in new fathers is not uncommon.

Antenatal and postnatal depression have the same symptoms and are treated in the same way. It’s just the timing that’s different – antenatal depression comes before birth and postnatal depression comes after. Sometimes these conditions are called perinatal depression.

If you or your partner are feeling particularly stressed and/or overwhelmed, we encourage you to speak with your CaFHS nurse who can support you and your family.

Getting help for antenatal or postnatal depression in men

If you think you might have depression it is important it is recognised and treated early and effectively.

Steps you can take to begin the recovery process:

  • Talk with your partner, family and friends about what you’re going through.
  • Contact one of the organisations above.
  • Speak to your GP.
  • Go to your local community health centre.
  • Contact your local mental health services.

If you’re having thoughts about hurting yourself or your family, speak urgently to your GP or call Lifeline Australia on 131 114. If you believe that someone’s life is in immediate danger, call 000 or go to your local hospital’s emergency department.

Dad and Partner Pay

Dad and Partner Pay is an entitlement under the Paid Parental Leave Scheme. It’s paid directly to working dads or partners by the Australian Government. Find out more about Dad and Partner Pay on the Raising Children Network website.