Study to look at men and natal depression

Note that this project is looking for participants from Victoria.
There is a similar research project being conducted by Sydney University that needs help from people living in Sydney!

Dads-to-be are needed for a study examining why some suffer depression while their partners are pregnant and after they have given birth.

Deakin University are investigating why up to 10 per cent of dads suffer some level of ante- and post-natal depression.

"Not a lot is known about depression in men after the birth of a baby, so it is likely that many are suffering in silence," Deakin psychology senior research fellow Dr Helen Skouteris said.

"We do not know a lot about the risk factors for the baby blues in men, so it is highly likely that more men are suffering without being diagnosed."

The researchers are looking for 250 men and their pregnant partners who are 12 to 17 weeks' pregnant to take part in the study, which will run for up to a year after their babies are born.

Couples interested in taking part or wanting more information can contact Kim Yiong Wee at kywe@deakin.edu.au

© AAP 2011

The foregoing article can be found on the ninemsn website at http://news.ninemsn.com.au/health/8286391/study-to-look-at-men-and-natal-depression

Participants need to be able to attend sessions at Deakin University.