Fathers could receive perinatal mental health screening under new proposal
A parliamentary inquiry is considering a proposal to provide perinatal mental health screenings for fathers alongside their partners. Advocates argue that fathers often face isolation and lack support, which can negatively impact the entire family unit.
Why it matters
Recognizing paternal mental health as a public health issue could improve family outcomes and reduce the stigma surrounding postpartum depression in men.
Matthew Johnson said parenthood was rewarding, but it had led to one of the loneliest times of his life. ( Supplied: Melinda Cartmer/The Fathering Project's Australian Fathering Awards )
Fathers would receive perinatal mental health screening alongside their partners, under one proposal to be canvassed by a parliamentary inquiry.
One in 10 fathers experience postnatal depression, with research indicating that when fathers are better supported, so too are mothers.
Fathers and advocates are being encouraged to share their experiences with a Senate inquiry examining postpartum health care.
Link copied Share Share article Reality TV helped Matthew Johnson find love, but then fatherhood brought a plot twist of its own.
The former Bachelor contestant-turned podcast host and father of three, commonly known as Matty J, said one of the most isolating times in his life was when he first became a dad.
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