Men-Emotions-and Maternal Mental Health

​Quiet Strength: Men, Emotions, and Maternal Mental Health
When we talk about maternal mental health, it’s easy to picture only moms at the center of the conversation. But fathers, partners, and male role models carry their own emotional weight — often in silence. And that silence matters. It affects them, their families, and the mothers they’re trying so hard to support.

In Podcast Episode 49 of the FOZA Podcast, Quiet Strength: Men, Emotions, and MMH, we take a closer look at the struggles men face, why their mental health is vital to maternal wellness, and what we can do to create a culture where they feel safe to speak up.
Why Men’s Mental Health Matters for Moms

• Impact on mothers: Studies show that when fathers experience depression or anxiety, the risk of postpartum depression in mothers rises significantly (by nearly 47%).
• Silent expectations: Men are often told to “be strong” or “man up,” which makes it harder for them to express their fears or ask for help.
• Ripple effect: A father’s mental wellness influences how supported and secure a new mother feels — which in turn affects bonding, recovery, and family stability.

The “Sad Facts About Men”
A recent social media post shared with FOZA highlighted truths many men live with:

• Most men rarely hear compliments, and when they do, they remember them for years.
• Many cry in silence because they were taught not to show emotions.
• They feel pressured to be strong, even while struggling inside.
• They fear being judged as weak if they speak up about mental health.
• They often feel lonely but don’t say it out loud.
• Love is expressed quietly, and heartbreak is carried silently.
• Instead of being asked, “Are you okay?” they are told to “Man up.”

These silent struggles don’t just affect men. They shape the way families interact during the postpartum period, often leaving mothers without the full emotional support they need.

What Can We Do?
DOWNLOAD THE ARTICLE: Why new fathers are underscreened for issues related to MMH

Supporting fathers and male role models isn’t a separate mission — it’s a vital part of maternal mental health advocacy. Here are ways families and communities can help:

• Normalize emotional expression — tell men it’s okay to cry, vent, or seek therapy.
• Offer genuine compliments and appreciation — small affirmations can be long remembered.
• Ask open-ended questions — instead of assuming, ask “How are you, really?”
• Encourage family-centered care — postpartum check-ins should include both parents.
• Build community spaces — peer groups, faith groups, and local organizations can be lifelines.

Practical Tips for Families

• Give one daily compliment — it costs nothing but means everything.
• Share household and baby care responsibilities intentionally.
• Practice small acts of connection, like a walk together or a shared journal.
• Check in with dads as often as you check in with moms.

Why This Matters for Maternal Mental Health
When fathers and partners are supported, mothers benefit. When men can speak openly, the stigma around postpartum mental health weakens. And when families feel connected and cared for, children grow up in healthier, more secure homes.

Resources

• Postpartum Support Resources for Fathers (PostpartumMen.com)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Crisis Support: Call or text 988 in the U.S. for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
• National Institute of Mental Health: Men and Mental Health
• Postpartum Support International

Keep In Mind:
Quiet strength is not about hiding pain. It’s about showing up with honesty, compassion, and resilience. When men are empowered to care for their own mental wellness, they help build stronger families and healthier communities.