Where does dad fit in the perinatal mental health conversation as fatherhood evolves? | Region Canberra
15 August 2026Start the conversationFathers are more involved in their babies’ lives than ever before, but they don’t have the same support spaces as mothers. Photo: Claire Fenwicke. CONTENT WARNING: This. . .
15 August 2026Start the conversationFathers are more involved in their babies’ lives than ever before, but they don’t have the same support spaces as mothers. Photo: Claire Fenwicke. CONTENT WARNING: This article discusses mental health issues and suicidal ideation. Fathers are more involved with raising their babies and children than ever before, but not a lot exists to give them the same level of support that mothers receive. Estimates indicate that up to one in five women and up to one in 10 men will experience anxiety and/or depression during the perinatal period (the time around pregnancy and birth). But one in 25 fathers of young children are also estimated to be experiencing suicidal ideation. Perinatal Wellbeing Centre CEO Dr Yvonne Luxford believed connection was needed to break up the feelings of hopelessness and isolation also being experienced by Canberra’s dads. “A lot of people, of course, don’t act on [those thoughts], but the fact that so many people are feeling that low shows we need to create more chances for connection,” she said. “We’re conscious that a lot of dads kind of don’t have a way to connect with each other. ”The centre’s hosting its first Dad’s Brekkie BBQ to give expecting and current fathers (and their families) a chance to relax, chat, and connect. Dr Luxford said relationships, finances and identities change when an infant enters the picture and it’s normal for parents to start questioning themselves and their ability to cope. “But dads and partners often get left out of the conversation and the equation, as a lot of the focus is on mum and bub,” Dr Luxford said. “The focus should also be there … but it’s definitely something we hear about, that dads and partners are feeling quite isolated as well and don’t have someone to talk to. ”Fathers are welcome to health-run baby groups, but the focus is usually on information about the baby and its needs. Groups for partners also aren’t popping up at the same rate as secondary parental leave is being accessed. Dads and partners caring for a birthing mother experiencing peri- and post-natal health issues also need to be supported. It’s hoped this breakfast will create some of that community. There’ll be barista-made coffee, face painting and ACT Playgroups volunteers on hand with kids’ activities, and stalls and information about local services. Brumbies legend (and current coach) Stephen Larkham will be there for a chat, as well as Ngunnawal and Kamilaroi elder Uncle Richie Allan. Prizes to be raffled include a double swag from Anaconda. The Perinatal Wellbeing Centre’s counsellors will be on hand to start a conversation if people need, but Dr Luxford said the focus was on connection. “It’s just a chance to have a family morning out, with a focus on dad and partners – the people we usually don’t talk about,” she said. “All while enjoying a free brekkie. ”The Perinatal Wellbeing Centre’s Dad’s Brekkie BBQ is on Saturday, 29 August, from 9:30 am to noon. It’s at 6 Minns Place, Weston. More information will be up on thecentre’s social media. If this story has raised issues for you, help is available by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14, Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia (PANDA) on 1300 726 306 or MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78. Never miss the local news and views that matter. Subscribe to receive the latest local voices straight to your inbox. Get all the local information you want, when you want it. Download the Riotact app to get all the latest news, events and opinions wherever you are. Region Media acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and report. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and emerging and commit our company to ongoing acts of reconciliation.