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AsiaOne
6 days ago
- Health
- AsiaOne
Just tired or something more? The overlooked mental struggles some new dads face, Lifestyle News
Postpartum depression (PPD) is often associated with mothers, but did you know that it can also affect fathers? The emotional toll of welcoming a new child doesn't just skip the other parent, and experts whom AsiaOne spoke to noted that while many dads might go through a temporary period of feeling either overwhelmed by stress or feeling 'blue', for some, it can manifest as paternal postpartum depression (PPPD). But what exactly is PPPD and what causes it? Speaking to AsiaOne, Dr Teng Jia Ying, psychiatrist from Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, explained that the condition is an episode of depression that occurs in a father following the birth of a child, and there are many factors that can lead to the development of it. Some examples include having to navigate change and adjusting to new responsibilities and roles for first-time fathers, being in a marital relationship with pre-existing strain and therefore increasing the risk of conflicts after childbirth. Experienced fathers who already have children may also struggle with increased caregiving responsibilities. Dr Teng also shared that in addition to these factors, things like shifting societal norms and even hormonal changes may contribute to the development of PPPD. "The role of the husband and father has shifted over time. Modern fathers are expected to be involved in childcare and parenting, and also work and provide for the family. The pressure to fulfil these expectations can be stressful for both first-time and experienced fathers," Dr Teng explained. "Studies have also found that fathers experience hormonal changes during their partner's pregnancy, and for several months after the birth of the baby. These include a reduction in testosterone levels, oestrogen, prolactin and cortisol," she added, explaining that while these changes in hormones help fathers to become more "emotionally responsive to their babies and develop a strong attachment with them", it may also increase the risk of PPPD. Is PPPD underdiagnosed? While it's a very real issue, PPPD isn't talked about much, and can be easier to miss due to a variety of factors ranging from a lack of awareness to societal pressures. According to experts like Dr Teng, PPPD is a condition that's "under-recognised and underdiagnosed". "Mental wellness services and awareness campaigns tend to focus on maternal postpartum depression, with a strong emphasis on its profound impact on the baby and family. Fathers who are having symptoms of postpartum depression may be less likely to seek help due to lack of awareness, or because of the fear of stigma and discrimination," she said. Dr Precelia Lam, general practitioner at Raffles Medical, also agreed that the limited discussion on the topic is a reason why PPPD is not diagnosed as often. "Unfortunately, there is little awareness of PPD in men because it is not as common as PPD in women. As a result, the condition often goes underdiagnosed and untreated," she shared with AsiaOne. Societal pressures and expectations According to experts, it may also be tougher for many fathers to speak up about, or seek help for mental health issues like PPPD due to societal pressures and expectations. Dr Teng explained that many men find it tough to talk about their mental health difficulties due to the fact that they're often expected to be "strong and silent" about their internal struggles. They may also worry about being seen as "weak" or "sensitive" if they talk about their emotions, which discourages them from seeking help. Dr Fong Yang, obstetrician and gynaecologist (OBGYN) from Aspire Centre for Women and Fertility, seconds this, telling AsiaOne: "Most men feel they have to be strong for themselves and their wives, because it is a known and acceptable condition for women to have postnatal blues, but in men it would them appear weak and ineffective as the head of a family." Speaking about how the expectations of how a father is supposed to carry out his role throughout the pre and postnatal journey can also contribute to the fear of sounding out. "In heterosexual childbearing couples, the message usually given to a dad is that pregnancy and birth are a woman's realm. Fathers can be excluded from prenatal appointments, classes or even the labour itself. When they are present, they're often told that their only job is to be supportive. Emphasis is always placed on instructing the husband to be strong while he is supporting his wife. They are often expected to 'be the rock'. Men's depression can be stigmatised and when they do feel depressed, they live with the fear of letting their wife down," Dr Lam explained. If left untreated, PPPD can cause real distress for those suffering from it. "Undiagnosed and prolonged paternal depression usually leads to men distancing and isolating themselves from their families and newborn. There may be poorer child bonding in the longer term, and a lack of interest in the development of these babies," explained Dr Fong. Dr Teng cautioned that untreated PPPD can lead to an "increase in frequency and severity of symptoms, and of particular concern would be the increase in risk of suicide and risk of aggression towards others". And it doesn't just affect the fathers. "Past research has found that PPPD affects parenting behaviours. Fathers were reported to be less sensitive and more hostile towards their children. Untreated PPPD can affect the children's development of secure attachment with their fathers," she explained, adding that children of fathers with PPPD also have an increased risk of emotional and behavioural problems at a later age. Dr Lam shares the same sentiment, stating that untreated PPPD can "have several negative effects on the father, the child and the family as a whole". She also shared that children "living with depressed fathers are far more likely to develop anxiety, depression or other mental health issues later in life". "Marital tension or conflict can arise, followed by reduced family functioning as household responsibilities and parenting duties may become unbalanced, [hence] worsening the strain," she stated. What are the signs? Now that we know that PPPD can go undetected easily, how do we identify the symptoms? According to Dr Lam, PPPD symptoms are more severe and long-lasting (not to be confused with the common 'baby blues' that many new parents face). They often do not go away on their own, and include things like: Social withdrawal Low energy, fatigue and lack of motivation Loss of interest in hobbies and regular activities Changes in sleep pattern, weight and appetite Alcohol and substance abuse Headaches Irritability Violent, aggressive, impulsive or risky behaviour The GP also stated that these symptoms may occur at any point during the first year after the baby is born. "There is also a severe form of PPD called postpartum psychosis, which can result in paranoia, delusions and hallucinations. This form is much more common in women, but can also occur in men," she stated. Dr Teng also cautioned that symptoms of PPPD can cause suicidal thoughts in serious cases. "There can be feelings of worthlessness and excessive guilt, for example negative beliefs about not being a good enough husband or father. In more severe cases, recurrent thoughts of death may be present, along with thoughts of self-harm and suicide," she said. Who does PPPD affect? Experts say that some people are more prone to PPPD due to a variety of factors. Some examples include poor relationships with in-laws and/or spouses, lack of support, a history of mental illness and financial stress. More notably, they also shared that having a spouse with PPD is also a risk factor. "Having a spouse with PPD has been found to be the most important and consistent risk factor for PPPD. A previous study reported that fathers whose partner has PPD have a 2.5 times higher risk of developing depression themselves at six weeks post-delivery, compared to fathers whose partners do not have depression," shared Dr Teng. On the topic, Dr Lam also stated that the "risk factors of PPPD include PPD in the mother", and that "half of all men with a partner suffering from PPD will show signs of depression as well". 'You're allowed to be vulnerable' But it's not all doom and gloom. Help is available, and fathers shouldn't be afraid to reach out for it. Dr Fong advised fathers to be willing to speak up when they have difficulties coping with the newborn, family and work responsibilities [or] difficulties juggling the different roles, or when their wives may also be experiencing depression. "In this day and age, equality of genders also applies to mental health problems, and the need for help in such circumstances does not stop at maternal blues or postnatal depression," he added. "Like every aspect of health, it is important to remember that there is help available for men as well. You are allowed to be vulnerable and to require support if you suspect you may have PPPD," stated Dr Lam. Acknowledging that fathers are often pillars of support for mothers during the early postpartum period, Dr Teng stated that it is "therefore crucial for a father to take care of his mental wellbeing, so that he can care for his partner and family". "I would encourage fathers who are experiencing symptoms of PPPD to seek support from their parents, other family members or friends. They can consider reaching out to other fathers, who may be more than happy to share similar experiences and offer useful advice," shared the psychiatrist. She also added that fathers should utilise their paid paternal leave benefits and spend time during the postpartum period to bond with their child and support their spouses. Additionally, they should set aside time for themselves like engaging in hobbies and other activities they enjoy while ensuring that they get enough sleep and have regular meals to maintain good physical and mental health. For dads who are looking for resources or support for PPPD, Dr Teng shared that there are increasing numbers of educational programmes on mental wellness and parenting targeted at fathers, like ones from Centre for Fathering and Dads for Life, which offer support for fathers in Singapore through workshops, events and educational resources. "Professional help is available in the form of counselling services and psychiatric care. Early treatment of postpartum depression can reduce a father's distress, improve quality of life, functioning at work and at home, and most importantly, improve relationships with loved ones," she encouraged. Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221-4444 Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019 Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin): 1800-353-5800 Institute of Mental Health's Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 Silver Ribbon: 6386-1928 Shan You Counselling Centre (Mandarin): 6741-0078 Fei Yue's Online Counselling Service: Tinkle Friend (for primary school children): 1800-2744-788 [[nid:717863]]
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
'No Kings Day' protest in Philadelphia: Everything you need to know
The Brief Approximately 1800 "No Kings Day" protests will occur Saturday across the U.S. to protest the Trump administration's policies. Philadelphia "No Kings" protest event organizers anticipate 30,000 attendees, police say. ICE is also preparing to deploy Special Response Teams (SRTs) to five cities, including Philadelphia. PHILADELPHIA - 'No Kings Day' protests are expected Saturday across the nation, with the 'flagship' protest expected to take place in Philadelphia. What we know The "No Kings" protest in Philadelphia will begin 12 p.m. Saturday at Love Park then march to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Event organizers for the Philadelphia "No Kings" protest on June 14 anticipate up to 60,000 attendees. Philadelphia police released a statement earlier this week saying their priority is to 'facilitate a peaceful protest' and 'prevent violence and disorder.' "As with all demonstrations, our priority is to facilitate peaceful protest, prevent violence or disorder, and protect the rights of all residents, businesses, and participants. we train our officers accordingly and deploy resources proportionate to the potential needs of the event," their statement read. During a news conference at Salt and Light Church in Kingsessing Thursday, District Attorney Larry Krasner said he discussed the protest face-to-face with PPD Commissioner Kevin Bethel on Wednesday. "We will carefully hold accountable anyone and everyone, whether they are uniformed ice agents or they are opportunistic criminals, who would tuck in behind lawful protest in order to loot. We will hold all of them properly accountable," said Krasner. ICE is prepared to deploy Special Response Teams (SRTs) to five cities run by Democratic leaders ahead of anticipated protest activity this weekend, FOX previously confirmed. Reports say the teams will deploy in Northern Virginia, New York, Philadelphia, Chicago and Seattle. Crowds are expected to gather at Love Park,16th Street between John F. Kennedy Boulevard and Cherry Street, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway between 16th Street and 17th Street, and Arch Street between 15th Street and 16th Street, before marching on the Benjamin Parkway to the rally location. City officials say the expected crowd size has prompted several road closures to ensure public safety. Motorists are advised to avoid the area during the event. SEPTA bus routes in the Philadelphia Museum of Art area will be detoured beginning at 3 a.m. Saturday. SEPTA bus routes through the Center City area will be detoured from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. You can check specific route changes on SEPTA's website. In addition to protests, many people are expected in Washington, DC. due to a large-scale military parade to mark the Army's 250th anniversary. It is also President Donald Trump's birthday and Flag Day. "It's going to be an amazing day," Trump said to reporters Tuesday. "We'll have tanks, we'll have planes, we'll have all sorts of things. I think it's going to be great." Trump warned that any demonstrations during the parade would be met with force. "If there's any protesters that want to come out," he said, "they're going to be met with very big force." What they're saying Reynoso is an activist with Our Revolution, a progressive political organizing group. She has been getting the word out about the mass protests across the country and will volunteer during the Philadelphia rally. "There is a lot of us who are very upset with what's going on," said Jessica Reynoso. "There are a lot of us who want to push back and show that we're upset with the way the administration has been conducting, especially with what's been happening in Los Angeles, the excessive force, and the National Guard that is being used against the citizens." The Source The information in this story is from Philly police, the City of Philadelphia, and FOX reporters.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Yahoo
Two dozen firearms, meth, stolen items found in Pittsburg narcotics search, PPD says
PITTSBURG, Kan. – Two convicted felons are back in jail after a narcotics search on a suspected methamphetamine distributor turned up drugs, stolen property, and two dozen guns, police say. Pittsburg Police's Special Response Team executed a drug search warrant on the morning of June 12 at a home in the 700 block of East 10th Street, reportedly uncovering the suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, stolen items, and firearms. Christopher Edward Lee, 51, and Irella Lee Burton, 37, were detained at the scene and later arrested. Both are convicted felons. Two dozen firearms, meth, stolen items found in Pittsburg narcotics search, PPD says Pitt State camp offers hands-on nursing summer camp for kids Kansas Regents approve tuition increases; What PSU students can expect PSU among Kansas colleges raising tuition SEK Special Olmypians enjoy 'Luau'-themed sendoff Lee faces multiple felony charges, including drug distribution and illegal firearm possession. His prior convictions include drug possession and manufacturing and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. Burton faces charges similar to Lee's, related to Thursday's arrest. Her criminal history includes drug possession, theft, and criminal damage to property. The Crawford County Sheriff's Office and Kansas Bureau of Investigation assisted Pittsburg PD with the case. The investigation remains ongoing, and PPD is asking anyone with more information to reach out. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
No Kings rally: Officials fortify safety plans as protesters prepare to descend on Philadelphia
The Brief Thousands of people are expected to attend Saturday's "No Kings" protest in Philadelphia. Philadelphia Police and the District Attorney said they will protect people's rights to demonstrate while holding law-breakers accountable. The rally kicks off 12 p.m. at Love Park. CENTER CITY - 1,800 "No Kings" protests are planned across the country this weekend. The largest is expected to take place in Philadelphia. What we know The "No Kings" protests call for a day of action to oppose the policies of President Donald Trump. The protests coincide with Trump's 79th birthday. More than 2,000 protests are scheduled around the country. The flagship is being held in Philadelphia. A noon rally at Love Park will be followed by a march to Eakins Oval where barricades have already been put in place. Dig deeper Event organizers for the Philadelphia "No Kings" protest on June 14 anticipate 30,000 attendees, according to police. "There is a lot of us who are very upset with what's going on," said Jessica Reynoso. "There are a lot of us who want to push back and show that we're upset with the way the administration has been conducting, especially with what's been happening in Los Angeles, the excessive force, and the National Guard that is being used against the citizens." Reynoso is an activist with Our Revolution, a progressive political organizing group. She has been getting the word out about the mass protests across the country and will volunteer during the Philadelphia rally. "I'm just worried about due process and I feel like me and my friends focus on that the United States is a democracy, and we just want to make sure our institutions are upholding that and keeping people accountable," said Reynoso. What they're saying During a news conference at Salt and Light Church in Kingsessing Thursday, District Attorney Larry Krasner said the upcoming protest was one of the important topics he discussed face-to-face with PPD Commissioner Kevin Bethel on Wednesday. "We will carefully hold accountable anyone and everyone, whether they are uniformed ice agents or they are opportunistic criminals, who would tuck in behind lawful protest in order to loot. We will hold all of them properly accountable," said Krasner. PPD Sergeant Eric Gripp said in a statement: "The Philadelphia Police Department remains firmly committed to protecting the constitutional rights of all individuals, including the right to peacefully assemble and express opinions under the First Amendment. As we have consistently stated, our role during demonstrations is to safeguard public safety while ensuring that individuals can exercise their rights without fear or interference. While we do not comment on hypothetical situations, we continuously monitor events locally and nationally to ensure we are prepared for any scenario. In coordination with our local, state, and federal partners, the PPD is always working to balance public safety concerns with the need to protect civil liberties. As with all demonstrations, our priority is to facilitate peaceful protest, prevent violence or disorder, and protect the rights of all residents, businesses, and participants. We train our officers accordingly and deploy resources proportionate to the potential needs of the event. We encourage anyone who plans to demonstrate to do so peacefully and in accordance with the law. The Philadelphia Police Department will continue to uphold our responsibility to serve all communities with professionalism, honor, and integrity." Governor Josh Shapiro also released this statement about upcoming protests: "The right to peacefully protest and exercise our First Amendment is a sacred American right — and here in Pennsylvania, we will always protect it. At the same time, we will always remain focused on keeping our communities safe and ensuring all demonstrations remain peaceful. As Governor, I will stand in defense of this constitutional right and work to ensure all Pennsylvanians can exercise it safely and peacefully. With demonstrations and protests planned across Pennsylvania this weekend, I want to be very clear: all protests and demonstrations must remain peaceful, lawful, and orderly. Violence is not an answer to any political differences, destruction and chaos are unacceptable — and neither will be permitted here in Pennsylvania. My Administration is coordinating with the Parker Administration in Philadelphia and local officials and law enforcement all across the Commonwealth to make sure that demonstrations this weekend are lawful and peaceful. Colonel Paris and the Pennsylvania State Police are working closely with local police departments to ensure they have the resources and support they need. Together, we are prepared to keep our communities safe while protecting Pennsylvanians' fundamental rights - and we will be working around the clock to ensure both the rights of protesters and the wellbeing of our cities and towns are protected. So long as l am your Governor, I will continue working every day to protect our freedom and keep our communities safe. Here in the Commonwealth William Penn founded on the promise that it would be welcoming to people from all walks of life, we can and must do both." "We're just trying to show our power in numbers, not in any other actions, so we're hoping that that's enough to keep us safe," said Reynoso. The "No Kings" protest in Philadelphia will begin 2 p.m. Saturday at Love Park then march to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Some say there is no better place to exercise free speech than Philly they just hope it stays safe. "If I was to come down I would just keep my antenna up and be careful. And I have done many protests in my day so I which everybody a safe journey when they come" said a Havertown grandmother walking the Parkway. A couple blocks off the Ben Franklin Parkway, the happy hour drinks were flowing at McCrossens Tavern Thursday night. But the buzz around the bar was about what's coming this weekend. "We are hoping for the best and we support freedom of speech and if the people have something to say we just hope it's said peacefully get their fair shake" said owner Jamie Brennan. What's next Philadelphia Police say they are prepared for what could be the biggest protest in the country on Saturday. Motorists are being told to avoid the area at all costs on Saturday. Eakins Oval and Kelly Drive inbound from Fairmount Ave. will be closed to traffic starting at 3 a.m. Saturday. There are similar protests going on in several suburban communities as well.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Yahoo
Burglary suspect accused of drug possession and kidnapping an infant
PARSONS, Kan. — Police in southeast Kansas say they arrested a man who burglarized a residence earlier in the week, and say that same man tried to kidnap an infant from a local hospital earlier this year. Parsons Police arrested Eric Francis Matthews, 32, on Tuesday in connection to an aggravated burglary reported the day before in the 2700 block of Grand. The homeowner said Matthews broke into his home, confronted a 13-year-old boy, and stole $80 before fleeing the scene. Burglary suspect accused of drug possession and kidnapping an infant Floodwaters help end southeast Kansas pursuit with reckless driver, police say Parsons hit-and-run suspect arrested after surrendering Parsons police honor officers' success in Leadership Labette program Southeast Kansas man arrested for throwing banana and bricks in alleged assault Parsons police say Matthews briefly resisted arrest but was taken into custody without injury. According to a news release, police say when they searched Matthews' residence they uncovered methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, pills, marijuana plants, and drug paraphernalia. All evidence will be tested by the KBI crime lab as the investigation continues. In February, PPD says Matthews was caught by Labette Health security guards, attempting to leave the hospital with a one-day-old baby. They say Matthews did not have permission to take the baby. Matthews remains in custody pending formal charges by the Labette County Attorney's Office. He was never charged in the kidnapping incident. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
