Father's Day: The Importance of Self-Care for Dads

Fathers Need Care, Too

Each Father’s Day, we pause to celebrate the men who shape our lives, through their strength and guidance, but also through their love, consistency, and care. Whether a dad, grandfather, uncle, mentor, or trusted friend, father figures help build the emotional foundation that allows children, families, and communities to thrive. 

This year, we are reflecting on a truth not often said out loud: fathers need care, too. 

As a society, we ask a lot of dads. We see them as protectors, providers, and problem solvers, but rarely do we talk about what they need to be emotionally and physically well. And yet, a family's health is often largely dictated by the health of its caregivers. The truth is that when fathers care for themselves, they are better able to care for the people who count on them. 

This message feels especially urgent now. According to a 2024 Gallup report shared by Axios, 

Young men in the U.S. report having fewer close friendships than ever, with many saying they don’t have a single “core confidant.” 

This deepening sense of disconnection is part of a broader crisis of loneliness that’s impacting emotional and physical health across the country, including for fathers. 

Loneliness doesn’t just affect individuals. This crisis also deeply affects those around them by wearing away their motivation and capacity to care for others. That’s why dads need places where they can reconnect with themselves and with others. Sometimes that happens in small but meaningful ways: a quick exchange with another parent while at a sporting event, a high five on the basketball or pickleball court, or simply being greeted by name. 

I’ve seen what healthy connections and self-care can look like in my own family. Joseph, my husband, has long been a steady presence in the lives of our three daughters. He shows up for the people he loves, family and friends alike, because he understands that caring for himself is essential to how he cares for others. He works out daily to stay strong, but also to stay grounded. Though semi-retired, he continues working in part because it feeds his spirit and keeps him socially connected. And he’s there when it matters, walking regularly with our youngest daughter, serving as a trustee in our church community, and always offering a calm and reliable presence for those around him. 

Our daughters would tell you he’s the ultimate ”girl dad”, the one they call when they need a sounding board, a laugh, or just someone to show up. He’s the center of their support system, not because he tries to do it all, but because he does what is needed most, taking care of himself so that he can care for others. 

In a 2025 New York Post national survey, 

70% of people identified their dad as one of their greatest life mentors, not just for teaching practical skills but also for building emotional strength, confidence, and resilience.

That kind of guidance starts with presence, and presence begins with well-being. 

Across our communities, there are fathers just like Joseph, men working every day to support their families while managing their own wellness. It’s not always easy. That’s why having spaces that support men’s health, connection, and purpose is so important. And that’s where the YMCA comes in. 

Finding rhythm on the rowing machine, powering through a Les Mills class, or taking part in a team training session can help fathers reflect and recharge. For those navigating stress, chronic conditions, or life transitions, programs that support mental wellness and chronic disease prevention offer additional paths to balance and well-being. These opportunities offer the reminder that showing up for yourself is part of showing up for others. 

For dads balancing wellness with parenting responsibilities, supportive spaces matter. The Y provides family changing rooms that offer a safe, respectful place to help children after swim lessons. Drop-in care for kids provides a chance to squeeze in a worry-free workout, while mom also gets time to herself. 

This kind of everyday support can make all the difference, helping fathers stay grounded and connected. In turn, fathers foster stronger families, deeper relationships, and communities rooted in belonging. This Father’s Day, let’s do more than say thank you. Let’s recognize that caring for fathers, and those who step into that role, is a meaningful investment in the well-being of our children, our families, and our entire community. 

Loria Yeadon 
President & CEO 
YMCA of Greater Seattle