A new baby is such an exciting event and brings so many positives - it’s easy to see why couples expect to feel happier together. It can come as a real shock to find that you are not getting on. But research shows this is normal – parenthood is often the most difficult transition anyone will have to make. For both of you, the focus of attention will have shifted and this can feel like a loss as well as a gain. Like women, men can struggle with the huge life changes a baby brings. "Hormones, lack of sleep, increased responsibility and general life stresses can apply to men just as much to women" (Fatherhood Institute research head Adrienne Burgess).

Although postnatal depression is only clinically defined for women, recent research highlights that about 10 per cent of new fathers become depressed after the birth of their child - more than twice the average for depression among men in general. And this study raises the question of whether new fathers should be screened for depression, as new mothers are.

Here are some of the signs and symptoms of depression, and how it can affect you:

• You’ve lost your sense of humour
• You feel there’s not much to look forward to
• You’ve started getting more anxious or panicky
• You’re miserable a lot of the time
• Increased irritability/anger
• And even though you feel tired most of the time - you have trouble sleeping

Depression, anxiety and other mood disorders are common. In fact, they’re just as common – and just as real – as physical problems, like heart disease or a broken ankle. It can also be just as crippling. If you display four or more of the above signs and symptoms for a period of two weeks or more – or just feel you need to talk to someone – contact us at YourHealthVisitor.

We can assess you and offer you up to 6 listening visits, and if necessary - we can refer you to more specialised counsellors. Please contact us to arrange an assessment or for more information.