Depression Symptoms in Men
Men may have trouble talking about their feelings. They might try to hide depression symptoms. Men who ignore depression can be afflicted with serious consequences. They are four-times more likely to commit suicide.
While discussions about mental health appear to be opening up but there is the stigma that men face and depression-related symptoms can be difficult to identify. Knowing what depression looks like for men can help them receive the treatment they need.
1. Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
Some men don't recognize the
signs and symptoms of depression that are typical like feelings of hopelessness or feeling devalued. This may be because of their culture, which teaches them to keep emotions from others even though it's unhealthy. Men are more likely to avoid talking about their feelings, which makes it difficult for family and acquaintances to discern that something is wrong.
A few people suffering from depression do not realize that they have a mental disorder and therefore do not seek help. This is particularly relevant for males. Men who don't seek treatment may have problems in their relationships, their work performance, or even their health. If they continue for too long without seeking treatment depression could result in thoughts of suicide.
In addition to feeling down in the dumps depression can also cause other issues, such as trouble concentrating or taking action. For instance, people who are depressed might exhibit more anger or irritability than usual or take risks that they wouldn't normally consider, such as driving recklessly.
Depression is a treatable condition however, it isn't always easy to identify. Consult your physician or counselor if depressed or know someone who is. There are treatments available, including medication and psychotherapy.
2. Feelings of anger or frustration
Men who experience depression can be more likely to show
signs of feeling down of anger and irritability than women. This may be because they are unable to express emotions that make them feel vulnerable, such as sadness. They could also have a tendency to turn to substances such as alcohol or drugs to cover up their emotions, which could result in issues later on.
Men can be afflicted by
physical signs of being depressed symptoms like headaches or back pain. These symptoms should be discussed with a doctor so that depression can be treated.
Despite the fact that
early depression symptoms is just as common for men as it is for women, a lot
signs of mild depression men have a difficult time getting diagnosed and treated. This could be due to beliefs about the way men and women should behave, or because many men are hesitant to admit that they suffer from depression. Depression is treatable with therapy or medication. The first step is to recognize depression in men. It is when you feel depressed and empty of the time for more than two weeks. Get help by a mental health professional.
3. Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
Men are often reluctant to seek help or to discuss their feelings, perhaps because they think that depression is a weakness, or that they must "man up." This could lead them to not seek the treatment they need, and result in a worsening of the situation.
Depression is characterised by the lack of interest in past activities that brought pleasure. This is called anhedonia and can be extremely distressing for the sufferers. Talking to someone for support, such as an acquaintance or a family member who is tolerant and supportive, can make the process easier.
A lack of enthusiasm can cause people to avoid social events, and also not engaging in other activities or hobbies. This can have a significant impact on relationships and self-esteem. It can also impact work performance and lead to unhealthy behaviors like excessive drinking or gambling.
A GP can diagnose depression and provide the necessary support. This may include medication or psychotherapy. Certain noninvasive methods such as neurofeedback have been proven to be effective for some people. This method tracks brainwaves and can be performed at home.
4. Trouble concentrating or making decisions
Men with depression may have trouble making decisions and thinking clearly. They may also have difficulty remembering things. If these symptoms last for more than 2 weeks and do not go away over time, they might be a sign of a long-lasting depression disorder (also called high-functioning depression).
Depression in men is less often diagnosed than in women. Men and women can have different symptoms, and a few people are not seeking help.
Some men are hesitant to openly discuss their feelings because they fear it could hurt their career or relationships. They might also be hesitant to get a mental health diagnosis due to the stigma surrounding depression or the belief that it's a sign of weakness.
It's important to anyone who suspects someone in the family is depressed to discuss their concerns with them. Encourage them to visit their doctor and be honest about what they are feeling. Start by asking about physical symptoms, and then go on to how they feel emotionally. They can then discuss what to do next. If they are worried about the possibility of suicide they can call the suicide hotline to receive assistance.
5. Inability to sleep or stay asleep
Men's depression symptoms can manifest as physical problems such as headaches, digestive issues fatigue, and digestive problems. They can also manifest as irritability, or a lack interest in activities and relationships. These issues can result in avoidance behaviors, such as drinking excessively to dull feelings or working obsessively without balancing, which eventually affects their lives and increases the risk for depression.
Anyone who is suffering from depression or contemplating suicide should seek help as soon as they can. If you or someone close to you is in immediate danger, call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or triple zero (000).
While women and men experience depression in a variety of ways, there are certain causes that are common to both. This includes the loss of a loved-one, poor health or financial difficulties. Men may experience these symptoms in a different way due to their tendency to conceal these symptoms or suppress them.
A doctor will ask questions regarding your symptoms, and perform a physical examination to diagnose depression. The doctor may recommend tests in the lab to determine any health issues that may be underlying. They will then use the criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to determine if you suffer from depression.
6. Weight loss or appetite loss
People suffering from depression typically don't receive the treatment they need. This can be because they don't recognize their symptoms, or because they believe it's "unmanly" to talk about them. They may try to hide their feelings through drinking, using drugs or engaging in risky behavior.
The people around him may also find it difficult to acknowledge his depression. Friends and family members of him might be able to help him by encouraging him to seek help and pointing out that depression is not something to be ashamed of.
If a man does decide to seek treatment, it's important that he considers all options available for treatment. Many people find that talk therapy (such as cognitive behavioral therapy or group support) is helpful, while others might benefit from medication. Neurofeedback and other non-invasive treatments have also been proven to be effective.
Anyone who suspects that they or someone else close to them could be suffering from depression should speak with a mental healthcare professional as soon as possible. If not treated, the condition can be extremely disruptive to relationships with family and friends, work and daily life activities. It could even lead to suicide which poses a significant risk for all involved.
7. Feelings of inadequacy and desperation
Men can also experience depression following a traumatic event such as an injury or physical trauma or involvement in a war, or witnessing the aftermath of a catastrophe. Depression is often caused by PTSD which is a condition typically diagnosed in military personnel and veterans. It is normal to experience periods of sadness and feeling "down in the dumps", but when these feelings persist for more than 2 weeks, it may be a sign of depression.
In contrast to women, who are more likely to use "emotional" techniques of coping such as crying and sadness, many men employ a variety of behavioral coping mechanisms. They include irritability and anger, excessive workaholism, addiction to alcohol or drugs and suicidal thoughts or attempts. It is not clear what causes depression to affect men differently however it is possible that it is related to hormonal, biological or genetic variations or to the way that traditional male roles restrict the expression of emotions and encourage the pursuit of competition, power and achievement.
It is crucial to seek treatment as soon as you notice the first sign that you are depressed. This will prevent the symptoms from becoming worse and result in permanent harm to your life. There are a variety of options for treatment, including medications, talk therapy, and non-invasive procedures such as neurofeedback. These procedures can help tackle the root of the problem.