The importance of dad's role within the family unit is so often underestimated. The role of father is incredibly complex and so much more is expected of us than our fathers' generation. When you become a dad so much changes in your life and yet, at the same time, so much stays the same - you're still expected to get up on Monday morning and go to work leaving a new born baby and an exhausted wife at home.

Sometimes it is so hard to work out what is a priority when just about everything seems to be a priority. Things can become even more complex when your partner goes back to work, as extra childcare responsibilities can be onerous. Alternatively, your partner or you may stay at home longer term and money problems may arise, either way, the additional pressure can be take its toll on you, your partner and your relationship.

This section tries to deal with some of these issues and how you feel about them. Dads' voices are rarely heard and so we hope to put this right. Perhaps when the issues are aired, from a man's perspective, it may help clarify some of the conflicts that arise within most households on a daily basis.

You can find information and support about:

• coping alone;



• relationships;



• Dads and postnatal depression;



• work issues including money pressures and juggling work and home;



• stay at home dads;



• bereavement;



• coping as a disabled parent.

There are also personal experiences and thoughts recorded on:

• a personal view;



• how can I help?;



• leaving mum and baby;



• your new role;



• your needs.

We've also included some recommended reading ideas.

Please let us know your views on the comments within this section. Hopefully something will ring true to you and you can add your thoughts.

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