An innovative helpline for fathers suffering from postnatal depression has received national recognition.

Fathers Matter, which was launched by South Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in 2004, was showcased on the ITV show This Morning.

The helpline, which is manned by specially-trained fathers, gives dads having trouble coming to terms with the birth of their children, a chance to discuss their feelings and emotions.

Nurse consultant Mary Alabaster, who set up Fathers Matter, and helpline worker Gary Earley talked to This Morning hosts Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford.

They explained how the helpline highlights the issue of postnatal depression among men, which is thought to affect one in ten new dads.

Mrs Alabaster explained: "Unfortunately, depression in fathers goes unrecognised because people don't expect fathers to become depressed, to cry or to talk about their feelings.

"Postnatal depression in fathers can actually be from a psychological perspective and a sociological perspective.

"We also know depression can start at any time in a person's life when people go through a major transition.

"It's difficult because you don't find men down the pub talking about their feelings, but they are just as vulnerable as women."

Mr Earley told viewers how he became involved in the helpline after the birth of his son in July 2005.

He said: "I saw a poster looking for volunteer fathers to help new fathers dealing with postnatal depression.

"I wanted to help people and wanted to put my experience to good use.

"Looking back, it was actually me looking for help.

"For the first couple of months I didn't even refer to my son by his name - I called him it, and I didn't really have any attachment.

"It wasn't love at first sight.

"If I was asked to pick him up I would, but I was keeping a distance.

"Through Fathers Matter I could, by trying to help other people, help myself."

For details about the helpline, call 01375 364654.