Sometimes, the best way to start a conversation about a new dad’s mental health is not to ask about mental health at all. It’s to ask: how are you sleeping?

In this episode, Dr Karen Wynter explains why that small question can be a useful way into conversations fathers may otherwise avoid. We talk about the research on poor sleep, distress, depression and suicidal thoughts in the first year of fatherhood — and why there is still no routine mental health check-in designed specifically for new dads.

We also explore father–infant attachment, the role of support and criticism between partners, and why fathers can feel like they are simply “in the room” during appointments that are meant to support the whole family. Karen shares what more father-inclusive care could look like in practice, from small actions by GPs, midwives and maternal and child health nurses through to larger changes in training, services and policy.

We also discuss the Australian Fatherhood Research Consortium, intimate partner violence prevention, what COVID revealed about fathers’ caregiving, and Karen’s advice for families preparing for a second child.

Dr Karen Wynter researches perinatal mental health, fatherhood, family wellbeing and how health services can better include fathers.

If this conversation brings someone to mind — especially a new or expecting dad — send it their way.