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Canberra Health Services
Health Information Sheet | Canberra Health Services

Fathers Matter

Being a father/partner can be challenging. This is a major change in your life, and it can take time to adjust.

You can:

  • talk about your experience and feelings with friends and family
  • talk to your partner about how you feel
  • look after your own health; try to eat well, maintain your exercise, and connect with friends and family
  • talk to your health professional, they provide a safe and confidential space to discuss your feelings.

You may also experience:

  • anxiety- racing thoughts and worries that stop you from doing your usual tasks
  • depression- low mood that lasts more than 2 weeks
  • tiredness
  • difficulty dealing with stress
  • intense or challenging emotions
  • difficulty in coping with seeing a traumatic childbirth
  • lack of confidence
  • challenges in bonding with your child
  • isolation
  • issues from your past, impacting on your wellbeing and parenting experience
  • conflict and stress in your relationship.

Many fathers/partners have felt like this and connecting with family and friends, accessing counselling and other supports can help.

Supporting each other as a couple:

Remember you are not alone. You and your partner can support each other:

  • listen to your partner’s concerns and feelings
  • understand that the birth process and having a baby can impact your relationships
  • talk together about each of your experiences. Have the conversation when things are calm
  • acknowledge it is common to have changes in your physical intimacy with your partner
  • be involved in daily baby care by bathing, holding, and changing nappies
  • share household chores and tasks like cleaning and cooking
  • share time together, getting to know each other as the ‘new’ family unit.

If you are single or in the process of separating:

This can be difficult, seeking help and support is vital:

  • you may be dealing with strong feelings like sadness, loneliness, or anger
  • some fathers/partners may not see their children as much as they want, this can
    be hard
  • reaching out for support and help can make you feel more connected and less alone
  • all fathers/partners want to do the best they can.

Further information, guidance, and support:

If you need immediate help, call 000, or Access Mental Health on 1800 629 354 (ACT) or Mental Health Access Line 1800 011 511 (NSW) or Lifeline 13 11 14

canberrahealthservices.act.gov.au