Overcoming the Fear of Fatherhood: Practical Tips for Men

It's not uncommon for men to feel overwhelmed and scared when they find out their girlfriend is pregnant. However, running will only make things worse in the long term. In this post, we'll explore some practical ways to overcome your desire to run so that you can accept or even embrace the prospect of fatherhood and be there for your partner during a challenging time in both of your lives. Below are some practical tips to deal with the situation:

Acknowledge and accept how you feel.

The first thing to do is to acknowledge the anxiety or fear that you are likely feeling. It's important for you to understand that those are completely normal emotions in a situation like this and that it is okay to feel that way. You should never feel ashamed of feeling scared or lost during difficult times. Becoming a father is a big deal, and there is no point in denying that fact to anyone - including yourself.

It's also important to understand that your feelings may evolve over time. While you may start with fear and anxiety, it's possible to grow to feel excited and happy about the prospect of becoming a dad. Being open to this possibility can help you stay motivated and invested in the process.

Talk to your partner.

If you are feeling scared and uncertain, it's very likely that your partner is sharing those feelings. While you won't always be able to reduce those stresses for her, you can certainly offer emotional support and understanding. Talking with your partner openly and honestly about what you are each feeling can also go a long way in developing trust and understanding between the two of you.

Build your support network.

Having a strong support system is essential for both you and your partner during this time. Start by reaching out to family and friends that care for you. These individuals can help provide practical help, advice, and emotional support. Invite them to journey alongside you and your partner as you walk the path into parenthood.

It's also important to seek professional help if needed. iChoose Pregnancy Support Services offers resources specifically tailored towards men or couples going through pregnancy together. Our Fatherhood Program that is extremely valuable for new dads. If you’re interested in learning more, feel free to contact us!

Practice self-care.

In order to be the best version of yourself during this time, it's important to make sure that you are also taking care of your own emotional and physical needs. Make sure you're getting enough rest, eating nutritious meals, and taking breaks from whatever stressful situation you might find yourself in.

Make a commitment.

The most important thing you can do for yourself and your partner is to make a commitment to be there. This means being an active participant in the birthing process, taking part in important decisions, supporting the mother through pregnancy and labor as best as you can, and having open communication with her throughout.

Make it clear that while parenting is a two-person job, you are willing to take on whatever responsibilities necessary to ensure the well-being of both your new family and your relationship, whether that relationship is romantic or not. Ultimately, it's up to you as a soon-to-be dad to show your child and your partner that you will be there for them.

Becoming a father can be scary and overwhelming, but running away from the situation will only make it worse. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and resources like those provided by iChoose Pregnancy Support Services are available to help equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful transition into parenthood.