UK Paramedic’s Battle with Postnatal Depression Highlights Need for Longer Paternity Leave

A London paramedic opened up about developing postnatal depression after returning to 12-hour shifts just two weeks after his son’s birth. With his wife recovering from an emergency C-section and no family nearby, he struggled to support both her and their newborn. He spent six weeks feeling burnt out and isolated, only regaining his sense of self after taking three months off. He believes extended paternity leave would have eased the transition, allowing him to bond with his son and help his wife heal. Now he’s joined campaigners calling for six weeks of leave at 90% pay, compared with the UK’s current two weeks at less than half the minimum wage. He hopes this push will ensure more new dads get the vital support and bonding time they need.

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