Connection, IT and Identity: SMS4dads as Health Promotion for New Fathers

The transition to fatherhood can be a catalyst for men to adopt healthier behaviours, but it may also contribute to mental disorder and social isolation. Reaching men with information and support during this period has proved difficult. However, the ubiquity of mobile phone use presents an opportunity to connect with men to deliver parenting and health-related messages and encourage help-seeking for distress. The case study of SMS4dads, tested in diverse populations, demonstrates the potency of brief text messages that address father-infant and father-partner relationships and fathers’ self-care. Programme evaluation has revealed new ways of understanding and responding to paternal vulnerability.