Free support groups for new dads
If you're searching for this late at night, you're not the only one. A lot of dads feel alone after a baby comes, and most never hear that there are groups made just for fathers. There are, and the ones below are free.
Rough night? Call or text 988, or 1-833-852-6262 (24/7, dads too).
Where to find a group
- PSI's free dads' groups. Postpartum Support International runs free online video groups just for fathers, led by trained peer facilitators. No referral needed. See PSI's help for dads.
- Talk one-on-one with a dad who's been there. PSI's Peer Mentor Program matches you with a trained volunteer who came through the same thing. You apply first and they match you, with new rounds every few months, so it's steady support rather than help for tonight. Learn about peer mentors.
- Ask an expert, no sign-up. PSI runs a free weekly "Chat with an Expert" call with licensed mental health professionals. You don't have to register or give your name. Details are on PSI's help for dads page.
- Our message board. If a video call feels like too much right now, start here. You can read and post any time of night, under a username, with your camera off and nobody watching. Go to the message board.
- Boot Camp for New Dads. Classes where new dads learn from dads who just went through it. Some are free and some cost money, so check before you sign up. Find one near you.
- Your hospital or doctor. Ask the place your baby was born if they run a new parents' group, and ask if dads are welcome. Many are.
What a group is actually like
Most dads are nervous the first time. You don't have to talk. You can just listen. Nobody will make you share your story, and nobody is there to judge. A lot of fathers say the first thing that helped was hearing another dad say out loud the thing they thought only they felt.
Not sure you "need" a group?
You don't have to be in crisis to join. Being tired, angry, numb, or just lost counts. If you're asking the question, it's worth a try. If you think it might be more than stress, read the signs of postpartum depression in dads.
More free help is on our resources page.
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Common questions
Are there support groups for dads after a baby?
Yes. Postpartum Support International runs free online video groups just for fathers, led by trained peer facilitators. There are also free message boards like ours where dads can post any time, under a username.
Do dads' support groups cost money?
PSI's online dads' groups and our message board are free. Some in-person classes, like Boot Camp for New Dads, may charge a fee, so check first.
Do I have to talk in a support group?
No. You can listen the whole time. Most groups are fine with that, especially the first time.
What if I need help tonight?
Call or text 988 any time, or call or text the Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262, which also helps dads and partners. In an emergency, call 911.
Last updated October 2026. PSI program details from Postpartum Support International, used with permission. Postpartum Fathers is peer support, not medical advice.