Dads Need Support Too: New Research Highlights Hidden Crisis for New Fathers

Written By Lisa Holder

A new study from Swansea University has uncovered a worrying and often hidden issue — suicide among new fathers. The research shows that too many dads are struggling in silence during pregnancy and the first years of their baby’s life.

What the research found

  • Over 22 years, fathers in Wales were seven times more likely to die by suicide than mothers during pregnancy and the first two years of their child’s life.

  • Across the UK, this could mean two to three babies lose their dad to suicide every week.

  • Unlike maternal deaths, there’s no national system for tracking these tragedies for fathers, so the problem often goes unseen.

  • The researchers are calling for better support for dads, including mental health checks, early intervention, and father-friendly services.

This is a wake-up call. When dads are left out of conversations about perinatal mental health, whole families are put at risk.

Read the full Swansea University article here.

Why dads matter

A man carrying a baby in a sling

Becoming a dad can be overwhelming. You might feel:

  • Exhausted and unsure what you’re doing

  • Pressured to “hold it all together” for your family

  • Worried about money, relationships, or your identity

  • Like you can’t say how hard it really is

When these feelings build up with nowhere to go, dads can become isolated and feel hopeless. And when dads aren’t well, it affects everyone — mums, babies, and families.

But you don’t have to face this alone.

Our response: PS Dads Rock – Peer Support for New Dads

At Dads Rock, we believe every dad deserves support, especially during those early days and months. That’s why we created PS Dads Rock – Peer Support for New Dads.

Our free peer support service connects dads with other dads who “get it.” Our trained volunteers offer one-to-one support where you can:

  • Share how you’re really feeling in a safe space

  • Learn coping strategies and self-care tips

  • Get signposted to professional help if you need it

  • Join our community of dads who’ve been there

You don’t need to be at crisis point to reach out. Any new or expecting dad experiencing low moods, anxiety or depression, having difficulty bonding with their baby, struggling with relationships or feeling isolated can benefit. Sometimes, just talking early can stop things from becoming overwhelming later.

“It’s a relief to talk to other dads who understand what I’m going through. I didn’t realise how much I needed that until I joined.” — A PS Dads Rock participant

For professionals supporting families

We know that most family support services are focused on mums — and that’s vital. But this research shows why including dads matters too.

If you work with families, you can:

  • Ask dads how they’re doing — beyond “How’s baby?”

  • Share information about support services like PS Dads Rock

  • Encourage dads to open up, even if it feels awkward at first

  • Advocate for services that include dads in perinatal mental health care

When dads feel seen and supported, families are stronger.

Join us — and help make a difference

Whether you’re a dad who needs support, a partner who’s worried, or a professional looking to refer, we’re here to help.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for urgent help:

  • Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7)

  • NHS 111 for urgent but non-life-threatening support

  • If someone is at immediate risk, call 999

Final thoughts

This study is a stark reminder that dads’ mental health matters. Too many men are struggling in silence — but it doesn’t have to be that way. By talking openly, offering support, and building services that include dads, we can save lives and create stronger families.

You don’t have to do this alone. Reach out. Talk. We’re here to listen.

Our PS Dads Rock service is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.

Lisa Holder
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