We often hear about how mum’s mood affects the baby, but did you know daddy’s mental health matters just as much? New research in JAMA Pediatrics, covering over 600 studies, shows that dads facing depression, stress, or anxiety from pregnancy to their child’s toddler years can unintentionally affect their kids’ language, emotional growth, social skills, and even thinking abilities. These effects stick around, even after accounting for Mum’s mental health. It’s a big wake-up call for Singaporean families, showing that .

A huge global review by JAMA Pediatrics confirms that fathers’ mental health has long-term effects on their children’s development. Here’s what the researchers discovered:

Dads aren’t just “helpers”—they’re anchors of emotional and mental security for their children. Here’s how a father’s well-being can impact a child’s early development.

Dads are vital in forming secure attachments. A low mood or stress can make dads less present and affect bonding, which matters a lot for kids’ long-term emotional health.

Engaged dads support early language and thinking. When dad is low or overwhelmed, these interactions drop, and that affects development.

Stressful home vibes can translate into school challenges, self-control issues, and anxiety in kids. A calm, supported dad helps build stronger coping skills.

Sometimes, it’s not obvious that someone is going through a tough time. These are signs you can look out for in new dads or fathers dealing with pressure.

If any of these sound familiar, it’s okay—and it’s a sign to do something sooner than later.

Support doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It starts with simple, meaningful actions that show you’re there for dad just as much as for baby.

Encourage dads to open up. Check in regularly: “How are you feeling today?” is a powerful question.

Work with your OBGYN or paediatrician to ask about dad’s mental health during regular check-ups.

If dad’s had a rough day and snaps at toddler, pause and ask: “Were you okay earlier, babe?” That space helps process emotions—without shame.

Singapore has “Dads for Life” groups and other parenting meet-ups. A chat with fellow dads who get it can be a real lifeline.

Remind dads to catch some shut-eye, move, eat well, and take a breather—even a 30-minute solo stroll can do wonders for mental clarity.

When public figures talk openly about parental struggles, it helps. Share those stories with your partner—no stigma attached.

Everyone benefits when Dad is mentally strong. These are just some of the changes you’ll notice in your family life when fatherhood comes with the right support.

Yes. Research confirms that paternal depression and anxiety during early years can trigger mental, emotional, and developmental delays.

Try a compassionate, “How’s your mood been this week?” Suggest exploring support together, whether from a counsellor or dad buddies.

Check out “Dads for Life” programmes, or ask your GP and polyclinic about mental-health screenings for dads. Online forums and groups can also lend quiet support.

Keep things steady: bedtime routines, check-in chats, plus emotional reassurance. Let kids know a parent might have “a sad head” sometimes—and that help is underway.

At the end of the day, parenting isn’t just about who feeds the baby or changes diapers. It’s about making sure everyone in the home feels seen, heard, and supported.

A dad who feels okay inside is a dad who can show up—emotionally, mentally, and physically. And when dad thrives, so does the child, the partner, and the entire home.

Let’s stop pretending dads have to “man up” and bottle it in. Support him today—for your kids, for yourself, and for the future of your family.