As we’ve witnessed once again in recent days, abortion is a hyper-politicized issue, where the debate is always framed as a winner-takes-all battle over the rights of women versus the rights of the unborn child. But there’s a third, invisible party whose interests get virtually no consideration at all—the father. Men might be blamed for playing a role in creating the pregnancy, but there’s no thought given to how he might be impacted by the ending of it too.
“Almost Daddy” is a powerful new novel by Gregory Mayo about how traumatic abortion can be for the man too. Traumatic in ways society doesn’t recognize and many men in that position don’t even realize themselves.
In addition to being an author, Mayo is a speaker and the creator of a 12-step recovery guide for post-abortion healing for men of the same name. He’s also on the men’s task force with Support After Abortion.
You can visit either link above for resources and Support After Abortion also offers a confidential 24/7 help hotline: 844-289-HOPE
Mayo talks about Post Abortion Stress Syndrome (PASS) and typical acting out behaviors for men suffering PASS. Below are listed of some of those.
PASS Symptoms
Anger / rage
Anxiety / Worry
Feeling like a failure or fear of failure
Low self-esteem
Helplessness
Suicidal thoughts
Depression
Self-loathing
Toxic shame
etc.
Acting Out Behaviors
Frequent job changes
Lack of trust
Risk-taking
Attention deficit
Isolation/avoidance
Alcohol or drug abuse
Displaced aggression
Problems with commitment
Serial sexual relationships
Changed views on God
Judging oneself without mercy