Matty J pushes for mental health screening of new fathers
A Senate inquiry is considering screening fathers for postnatal depression. This would happen alongside screening mothers.
Matthew Johnson, known as Matty J, was recently named Australian father of the year. He spoke about his own isolation after becoming a dad.
The former Bachelor contestant said early fatherhood felt lonely. This was true even though he had a partner and children he'd long dreamed of.
A Senate committee is examining postnatal healthcare. It is considering a proposal to screen fathers for mental health issues alongside mothers.
Currently, pregnant women are routinely screened. Men rarely are.
One in 10 fathers experience postnatal depression. Health experts say if fathers were screened at the same time as their partners, doctors could identify those needing support.
They could then arrange follow-up care. Research shows that when fathers receive better support, mothers also benefit.
- 1 in 10
- Fathers with postnatal depression
- Matthew Johnson (Matty J)
- Advocate
- Senate committee on postpartum healthcare
- Reviewing body
Why it mattersEarly identification of depression in fathers could help more Australian families stay mentally healthy. It could also reduce the isolation many new fathers experience.
AustraliaAustralia's Senate is examining whether to require screening and support for fathers' mental health after birth, something currently offered to fewer than 2 per cent of new dads.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 15 h ago
