This June, as Father’s Day approaches, we’re taking a moment at Teenage Mental Health to shine a light on the important role fathers play in their children’s emotional and mental wellbeing.

Whether you're a dad, stepdad, grandad, carer, or a father figure in any form, your presence, care, and involvement matter a great deal. Research and experience both tell us that children with engaged, emotionally available fathers often enjoy stronger mental health outcomes and more secure relationships.

Let’s explore why.

💬 Emotional Security and Confidence

Children who feel emotionally safe with their fathers tend to grow up with a stronger sense of self-worth. When dads are available, not just physically but emotionally, it gives children a foundation of trust and security. This helps them develop healthy self-esteem, resilience, and confidence in facing life’s challenges.

Even small moments, listening at bedtime, sharing a laugh, or offering reassurance after a bad day, can become the building blocks of emotional strength.

🧠 Cognitive and Academic Development

Fathers can play a big part in their child’s educational journey too. Studies show that children with dads who are engaged in learning, helping with homework, attending school events, or simply being curious about what their child is learning, often achieve better academic results.

It’s not about knowing all the answers; it’s about showing interest, asking questions, and being present. Dads who take an active interest in learning often help children develop better concentration, problem-solving skills, and a more positive attitude towards education.

💪 Healthy Routines, Healthy Bodies

Dads also help shape their child’s approach to physical health. Whether it’s kicking a football in the park, going on a weekend walk, or modelling a balanced lifestyle, these shared experiences support physical wellbeing, which is deeply connected to mental health.

Children who see their father enjoying movement and making time for healthy habits often feel encouraged to do the same. And importantly, these activities also offer precious time for bonding and open conversation.

👥 Social and Relationship Skills

Children learn by watching. When dads model respectful communication, empathy, and emotional regulation, children begin to internalise these behaviours and carry them into their own friendships and relationships.

Research has shown that when fathers set clear and consistent boundaries, it helps children feel secure and learn to respect others’ boundaries too. This structure, balanced with warmth, supports the development of strong, healthy social skills.

🤔 What If Dad Isn’t Around?

It’s also important to acknowledge that not all children grow up with an actively involved father. Some children may have lost contact, experienced harm, or simply never known their dad. Others may have more than one father figure, such as step-parents, carers, or chosen family members.

What matters most is the presence of a consistent, emotionally available adult, someone who listens, guides, supports, and believes in the child. The role of a father can be filled by many different people, and it's the quality of the relationship that makes the biggest difference, not biology or labels.

📖 What the Research Tells Us

While it’s widely known that mums play a huge role in emotional development, fathers are increasingly being recognised in research for their unique and vital contributions too. Studies have found:

• Children with involved fathers tend to show better emotional regulation and lower levels of stress.

• A strong father-child relationship is linked to higher self-esteem, greater empathy, and reduced behavioural issues.

• Boys with poor paternal relationships are more likely to show signs of aggression and emotional difficulties.

• Fathers who offer emotional support create space for children to talk through feelings and build resilience.

It’s not just about how much time you spend with your child, it’s about how you spend that time. Warmth, attention, and responsiveness are what count.

💛 Our Message This Father’s Day

At Teenage Mental Health, we work with many young people navigating family dynamics, identity, and change. We see firsthand the positive impact of involved dads, as well as the wounds left when fathers are absent or emotionally unavailable.

That’s why we want to say: to all the fathers and father figures showing up for their children, thank you. Your role is powerful and essential.

And if you’re a dad struggling with how best to support your child’s mental health, or a young person finding it hard to connect with your father — we’re here to help. There’s no shame in needing support, and no better time to build bridges than today.

Happy Father’s Day from all of us at TMH — and a special tail-wag from 🐾 Womble, our resident therapy dog!

Let’s keep celebrating strong, caring, emotionally available fatherhood — not just in June, but all year round.

📞 Need support? Visit www.teenagementalhealth.co.uk or call 01473 411324.