Predicting post natal depression in fathers: an Australian study

Researchers at Victoria's Deakin University are recruiting 250 soon-to-be dads whose pregnant partners are at 12 to 17 weeks in gestation from across the country for a study that will track them from mid-pregnancy until their newborn turns one year old.

Deakin's psychology Senior Research Fellow Dr Helen Skouteris said that participating dads will be asked to share their feelings and experiences for the research, which is hoped to shed new light on the triggers of ante and postnatal depression in men. The work is also expected to lead to an improvement in depression diagnoses and new targeted support services for dads. ``Keeping an eye on the mother's health is a common and essential part of pregnancy,'' Dr Skouteris said: ''however it is equally important for dads to maintain their physical and mental health at this time and also after the baby is born''.

Couples interested in taking part should contact Deakin PhD student Kim Yiong, via email  

Date: Monday, January 11, 2010