Background. Fatherhood lifestyle changes may contribute to stress and depression. Previous studies have highlighted risk factors for poor paternal mental health, including lack of social support, unemployment, and substance use. This review aimed to synthesize current evidence on paternal mental health during the perinatal and postnatal periods.
Methods. A five-stage scoping review framework based on Arksey and O’Malley was used to map current evidence on paternal mental health during the perinatal and postnatal periods, focusing on the prevalence of paternal stress and depression, risk factors, psychosocial impacts, and assessment tools. Articles published between 2015 and 2024 were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Data were extracted using a standardized charting form and analysed using narrative synthesis.
Results. A total of 1,142 articles were retrieved, and 11 were included in the final analysis. Studies represented Nigeria, Ethiopia, Finland, the United Kingdom, Australia, and China. Reported prevalence of paternal postpartum depression ranged from 2.5 to 54 percent. Common risk factors included unemployment, low income, lack of social support, and substance use. Psychosocial impacts included father-infant bonding difficulties, marital conflict, social isolation, and reduced quality of life.
Conclusion. Early intervention and culturally sensitive mental health support may help address these challenges.
