The early years of parenting can be both rewarding and challenging for fathers. From sleepless nights to the pressures of adjusting to new routines, many men experience significant changes in their lives as they navigate fatherhood. While these challenges can strengthen bonds and create moments of joy, they can also take a toll on mental health. For some men, these changes can exacerbate pre-existing mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression, that were present before becoming a parent.
Research shows that around 10% of fathers experience mental health difficulties during the early parenting years. Tragically, suicide is a leading cause of death among men aged 25-44, a time when many are raising young children. Yet, despite the impact on fathers’ wellbeing, we know very little about how men experience and cope with suicidal thoughts or behaviours during this period.
The Dads Story Project aims to explore these experiences to deepen our understanding of how fathers navigate suicidality during the early years of their child’s lives. By hearing directly from fathers about these experiences, we hope to better understand what it is like so that we can improve health and social services, ensuring better support for men during these crucial years of their lives.
What’s Involved
Participants will be asked to take part in a 60-90 minute online interview about their experiences of fatherhood, mental health, and suicidal thoughts, plans, or behaviours. Participants will receive a $30 Coles/Myer digital gift card to thank them for their time.
This study has received Deakin University ethics approval (reference number: 2025-HE000569)
Who Can Take Part
To take part you must:
– Currently live in Australia
– Be aged over 18 years
– Identify as a father (fathers from the LGBTQIA+ community are welcome to participate)
– Be able to participate in an interview conducted in English
– Be a parent or caregiver to at least one child aged between birth and five years
– Have had any suicidal experiences (e.g., thoughts, feelings) since the birth of your child
Next Steps
Click here to read the Plain Language Statement to find out more about the study. You can complete the consent form and brief eligibility survey to get started.
If you would prefer to express interest in this study to be contacted by a member of the research team, follow this link.
Alternatively, feel free to get in touch with us directly if you have any questions:
Casey Hosking
Student Investigator
c.hosking@deakin.edu.au
0476 801 204
Or
Professor Rebecca Giallo
Principal Investigator
r.giallo@deakin.edu.au
What are suicidal experiences?
Suicidal experiences include a broad range of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. This can range from having abstract thoughts about ending your life, or feeling like people would be better off without you. It can also mean thinking about methods of suicide or making clear plans to end your life.
These experiences can show up differently for different people. Some people might think about suicide or not being around only a few times, or they might think about this every day.
Do you need extra support or information?
If you are currently experiencing challenges with your mental health or wellbeing, including suicidal thoughts or behaviours, you are not alone. Organisations like Lifeline provide support to people with suicidal experiences every day. You can call them on 13 11 14, or go to lifeline.org.au for other ways to seek support. If your life is in danger, please call 000.