Can new dads get postpartum depression?

According to a recently released study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, new dads might be equally at-risk for what is usually called postpartum depression (PPD) in mothers.

Here's what the National Alliance on Mental Illness released in a recent article:

"According to NPR, the JAMA study reveals that as many 10 percent of men whose partners are pregnant experience an onset of depression anywhere from three months prior to the baby's birth up to the child's first birthday. The incidence of depression in new fathers is twice the typical rate of depression in men and also corresponds with the rate of postpartum depression in women."

If you think about it, there's logic behind this. A new baby comes into the house. Excitement ensues, but so do anxiety and sleepless nights. Sprinkle in some chaos and a touch of fear and you've got yourself a recipe for a freak out don't you think?

Would I go so far as to say dads can develop PPD on a hormonal level like studies suggest most women who suffer from PPD do? Maybe not, but at the very least more research should be done.

Either way, depression is a serious issue that when left untreated can have a dire impact on the health and well-being of the family. I know I've put out the call to my loved ones to be aware of my mental state following Eleanor's birth since PPD runs in my family.

Thoughts on this?

xoxoL