Support for new dads is not as prevalent or accessible as it ought to be. However, a dad-specific service designed exclusively for men expecting to be a father soon is showing real progress and is a program I advocate to new dads in my practice.
SMS 4 Dads
The name of this program is called SMS4dads and was developed by Assoc. Professor Richard Fletcher from the University of Newcastle, Australia.
Richard and his colleagues wanted to deepen the support available to new fathers, their partners and babies.
How it Works
- Navigate to the SMS4dads site, link here
- Enroll for free and enter in your baby’s due date (or complete a short survey)
- Once registered, you will receive 3 SMS messages per week
Some of these messages provide tips and encouragement, understanding your health and wellbeing and partner support strategies etc.
Deadly Dads
Deadly Dads is the same free SMS4dads service but developed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dads-to-be.
The text messages have been co-designed with Aboriginal health professionals especially for First Nations dads.
The message help dads –
- Connect with their bub
- Support mum
- Look after themselves
For Health Professionals
Encouraging expectant fathers to engage with SMS4dads is an easy process that supports men health as they begin a new phase of their lives.
This validated program has been developed by academics and health professionals for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous male populations. A link to a recent publication can be accessed here.
All health professionals can recommend newly expectant dads to the program. No formalised referrals are required.
SMS4dads also has free digital resources that your practice can download and display in your waiting room areas.
Real Men’s Health Takeaway
Becoming a dad is often never straightforward and there are always new things to learn along the 9-month journey.
The SMS4dads program is a free men’s health service developed by experts who only want you and bub to succeed.
