Dads Matter Too
We know how important your relationship and role are with your child and we are here to support you. Research shows how important the early years are in your child’s brain development which can have a profound impact on their social and emotional abilities as they grow up. We are here to support you to create positive relationships with your child. It is also beneficial for you, your partner and child if you can attend any appointments with the Health Visitor.
The transition to parenthood can be difficult, here are a few suggestions to help ease this transition:
- Ask for advice
- Be involved as much as possible
- Try Skin to skin contact with your baby
- Communicate with your partner
- Talk, play, and read with your baby
- Enjoy the cuddles and eye contact
- Rest when able
Following the birth of a child, Dads can sometimes experience depression. Symptoms can include:
- Feeling down, sad, or hopeless
- Feelings of not being able to cope
- Struggling to bond with your baby
- Constant tiredness, struggling to fall asleep
- Numbness
- Worrying that you don’t love your baby enough
- Feeling Irritable
- Anxiety or Panic Attacks
- Loss of appetite
- Having thoughts of self-harm
If you experience any of these symptoms, or you are concerned about your mental health, please access your GP, or discuss with your Health Visitor by contacting us via our Single Point of Access (SPA).
What other support is available?
DadPad – Tools and knowledge to help you support your baby and baby’s mother. Dads in Warwickshire can get free access to DadPad by signing up using a Warwickshire postcode.
The Fatherhood Institute – Helpful information and advice.
Institute of Health Visiting – Top Tips for Dads.
Dads and Partners – Resources to support Dads and partners on their parenting journey.
ICON – Coping with a Crying Baby.
NSPCC – Look, Say, Sing, Play with Daddy – Supporting baby’s brain Development
NSPCC – Look, Say, Sing, Play with Daddy – Activities with Daddy
