273: Paternal Mental Health: The Emotional Wellness of Fathers

Fathers are often overlooked in the conversation around perinatal mental health, and that needs to change. June is not only the month of Father’s Day but also International Fathers’ Mental Health Day, celebrated on June 19. Fathers, and men in general, have been conditioned to look past their feelings in most cultures, but we know men have complex emotional responses to the challenges of fatherhood. We need to offer more support for fathers in the co-parenting relationship, and these conversations are necessary and beneficial. Join us to learn more from today’s guest! Adam Angel, LCSW, has 15 years of experience working with youth, adults, and families. His specializations include paternal mental health and developmental trauma. He currently facilitates both peer support and death-oriented therapy groups for fathers at various stages, specializing in supporting fathers who have suffered perinatal loss in stillbirth and early infancy. Adam’s specialization in developmental trauma is supported by his master’s level training in the NeuroAffective Relational Model, also known as NARM. We need to change the narrative around fatherhood and recognize men as the complex, emotional beings that they are.  Show Highlights: What paternal mental health is and how Adam offers support to fathers Why fathers feel left out of much of the perinatal experience and don’t want to be “the other” part Common mental health challenges for dads in the perinatal period How support groups and group therapy help fathers find safe spaces for conversations–even in the virtual space What NARM is and how it works in therapy sessions Why men need help dealing with shame, guilt, emotions, and the role model gap How Adam uses Fair Play Life in therapy with fathers–and how it can be a tool to support relationships Why both partners need to value all three relationships: you and your partner, you and your baby, and you and yourself What fathers can do to get started with mental health conversations Resources: Connect with Adam: Website and Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support! Find more information about International Father’s Mental Health Day events! Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!