New research reveals a concerning trend where new fathers face a significantly higher risk of suicide compared to new mothers, shedding light on a “hidden crisis” among men navigating fatherhood. The study shows that seven times more fathers die by suicide during their baby’s first 1,001 days than mothers. While specialized mental health support is readily available for pregnant women and new moms during the perinatal period, former health minister Dame Andrea Leadsom emphasizes that fathers are often left out of this crucial care.
Dame Andrea emphasizes the urgent need for governments globally to address this issue, advocating for the inclusion of fathers in specialized perinatal mental health services. She stresses the importance of supporting fathers’ mental well-being to not only save lives but also to promote equality and provide every child with a healthy start in life. In response to these findings, Dame Andrea has launched the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, a charity dedicated to ensuring optimal early development for babies from conception to their second birthday.
A recent study conducted by Swansea University, funded by the foundation, has produced the first population-level data on paternal suicide rates in the UK. The research analyzed suicide rates among mothers and fathers in Wales over the first 1,001 days of their children’s lives, revealing a stark contrast with 16 maternal suicides compared to 107 paternal suicides during this critical period. The researchers stress that all suicides are preventable and highlight the higher rates of suicide among first-time fathers and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, calling for the inclusion of fathers in specialized perinatal mental health services.
Dame Andrea, speaking at the charity launch, underscores the significance of early experiences on a child’s long-term emotional and physical well-being, drawing from her own struggles with postnatal depression. While maternal suicide is often measured, she points out the lack of attention given to paternal suicide, advocating for a shift in focus and policy interventions to address this overlooked crisis. The 1001 Critical Days Foundation has allocated a £1 million grant to Home-Start UK to implement the Dad Matters program nationwide, aiming to provide essential support for fathers, mothers, and babies.
Lord David Blunkett, the charity’s patron, expresses pride in supporting this initiative, emphasizing the importance of investing in nurturing and supporting parents from the earliest stages of a child’s life. He highlights the value of such investments in shaping a brighter future for society. The charity’s efforts aim to fund essential services, promote crucial research, and ensure that families receive the necessary support to help children thrive.
