Wellbeing Support for Dads: During Pregnancy and the Perinatal Period

Dad Matters, powered by Home-Start, know that becoming a dad is one of the biggest life changes you’ll ever experience. While it can be exciting, it can also feel overwhelming – and that’s normal.

Your mental wellbeing matters, not only for you but for your partner, your baby, and your whole family.

Why does dad’s mental wellbeing matter?

When dads are supported, families thrive. Research shows that around 1 in 10 dads experience depression during the perinatal period (pregnancy and the first year after birth), and many more struggle with stress, anxiety, or exhaustion.

👉 Did you know?
When dads have good mental wellbeing, it positively influences their baby’s emotional development and strengthens the whole family’s resilience.

What might I be feeling?

It’s common for dads to feel:

• Anxious about money, housing, or job security
• Unsure about how to support their partner
• Left out or “on the side lines”
• Tired, stressed, or overwhelmed by new responsibilities
• Low in mood or detached from the baby

Sometimes these feelings pass. But if they’re ongoing or getting worse, it could be a sign you need extra support. And that’s okay.

How can I look after my mental wellbeing?

Taking care of yourself is not selfish – it’s essential.

You could try:

• Talking about how you feel – whether with your partner, a friend, or a professional.
• Resting when you can – even short naps can help when nights are tough.
• Eating well and staying active – small, steady habits boost energy and mood.
• Spending time with your baby – even a few minutes of cuddles, skin-to-skin, or play can lift your mood.
• Connecting with other dads – hearing “me too” can make a big difference.

New dads checklist:

• Have I had at least one honest conversation about how I’m feeling this week?
• Did I take a short break just for myself today?
• Have I connected with another dad, friend, or family member?
• Did I do something active or outdoors, even for 10 minutes?

What if I’m struggling with my mental wellbeing?

You are not alone. Many dads experience difficult feelings before and after the birth of their baby. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Support for Men’s Mental Wellbeing in Surrey and across the UK

• • Dad Matters Surrey – Support tailored to dads in pregnancy and the first years of having a baby – get in touch to see how we can support you dadmatters@homestartsurrey.org

   Wellbeing

  • Surrey Health & Wellbeing – Information, resources and support for your mental wellbeing.
  • Andy’s Man Club – Free to attend peer-to-peer support groups across the UK and online.
  • Pit Stop Surrey – Peer-to-peer support groups for men in Surrey. 
  • Mentell – Mentell provides online groups for males aged 18+ to talk in a safe and confidential space, free from advice and judgement.

  Crisis

  • The Samaritans – 116 123, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
  • Calm – Suicide-prevention charity with tools, resources and a helpline. 
  • Shout – 24/7 text SHOUT to 85258, a confidential text support service

Next: Info for Professionals and Referrers