First UK population-level data on parental suicides shows that during the first 1,000 days after birth first time dads are most at risk
New dads are at much higher risk of suicide than new mums as experts warn about a “hidden crisis” among men struggling with fatherhood.
A review has shown seven times as many fathers died by suicide in their baby’s first 1,001 days compared with mothers. Specialist mental health services are available for pregnant women and new mothers around the time of childbirth but former health minister Dame Andrea Leadsom is warning that fathers are excluded from this care.
Dame Andrea said: “This research is a wake-up call to governments worldwide. Fathers are excluded from specialist perinatal mental health services.
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“By supporting the mental health of dads, we can save lives, reduce inequality and give every baby the best start in life.” It comes as Dame Andrea launches a new charity, the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, which aims to give babies the best start in life from the time of conception until a child’s second birthday.
The charity funded the new study by academics at Swansea University producing the first UK population-level rate for paternal suicide. Researchers examined suicide rates among mothers and fathers in Wales between 2002 and 2021 during the first 1,001 days of their babies’ lives. They found that during this period some 16 mothers died by suicide compared with 107 fathers.
The researchers wrote: “It is important to remember that these figures represent real lives lost. All suicides are potentially preventable.” They also said that suicide rates were higher among first-time fathers as well as those from more deprived areas. The authors called for fathers to be included in specialist perinatal mental health services.
Speaking at the launch of the charity, Dame Andrea will say: “The science is stark – the experiences of a baby during the period from pregnancy to age two form the building blocks for their lifelong emotional and physical health. My own experience of postnatal depression showed me how tough those early days can be and how vital it is to support mums, dads and carers.
“Suicide remains the leading cause of maternal death, but paternal suicide isn’t even measured. That has to change. The research we have funded at Swansea University will shine a light on this hidden crisis and help policymakers find the right interventions to save lives.”
The charity has awarded a £1 million grant to Home-Start UK to establish the Dad Matters programme nationally. Lord David Blunkett, patron of the charity, added: “I am proud to be patron of this important new charity, which will help fund frontline services, champion vital research and ensure that babies, mothers and fathers get the support they need.
“Investing in nurturing from the earliest age and supporting parents to help their child thrive is one of the smartest investments we can make in the future of our society.”
For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.