Father’s Day & Mental Health: Celebrating Dads and Their Wellbeing

Father’s Day is all about honoring dads, granddads, and father figures with love and appreciation. But let’s take a moment to think about something quieter yet just as important—their mental health. Dads, like anyone, face emotional ups and downs, and looking after their wellbeing isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential for them and their families.

Why It Matters

In Australia, studies show about 1 in 10 new dads deal with depression, and up to 1 in 5 feel anxious during those early parenting months. Things like sleepless nights, money worries, juggling too many roles, or relationship strain can really hit hard. It’s more common than we might think.

The Ripple Effect

A dad’s mental health doesn’t stay with him—it touches his kids and family too. Research from Emerging Minds in Australia points out that when dads struggle, it can influence a child’s emotions, social skills, and even how they learn. On the flip side, when dads bring warmth, affection, or just kick a footy around, it helps kids grow up with fewer behavioral or emotional issues. Those little moments—like reading a bedtime story or helping with the school run—make a real difference. Plus, a dad’s support can ease stress for mums and boost outcomes for little ones.

The Challenges Dads Face

Too often, dads feel left out when it comes to mental health support. Here’s why:

Stigma: Society sometimes tells men to tough it out, making it hard to open up.

Service Gaps: Perinatal care tends to focus on mums, leaving dads overlooked.

Feeling Unseen: Many dads want more recognition and easier access to help but don’t know where to turn.

Making Father’s Day Count

This Father’s Day, let’s celebrate dads and shine a light on their needs:

Check In: Ask a dad, “How are you really doing?”—and listen.

Share Help: Point them to trusted Aussie services like PANDA or MensLine.

Encourage Support: Push for dads to be part of perinatal health chats.

Celebrate Connection: Warmth and involvement are gifts that protect kids’ mental health.

A Thought to Take Away

This Father’s Day, go beyond a tie or card. Give dads the gift of being noticed, supported, and valued—for what they do and who they are. Helping their mental health strengthens families and the future.

Resources for Dads (Australia)

If you or a dad you know needs a hand:

Emerging Minds: Tips on kids’ wellbeing and dads’ roles.

PANDA: Support for new parents. Call 1300 726 306.

MensLine Australia: 24/7 for men on stress or relationships. Call 1300 78 99 78.

Beyond Blue: Help with anxiety or depression. Call 1300 22 4636.

Lifeline: 24/7 crisis support. Call 13 11 14.

Reaching out is brave. Support is just a call away.