Recognizing Depression Symptoms in Men
Many men struggle to express their feelings, even though the conversation about mental health has become more open and compassionate. They can miss depression symptoms, whether they're their own or the result of someone else's.
Fortunately depression in men can be treatable through counseling, medication or lifestyle modifications. NYU Langone's team of experts in psychology provides an overview of depression symptoms that men are most likely to experience and gives tips on how to seek treatment.
1. Loss of interest in the activities
Men who experience depression often find themselves unable to enjoy things that they usually find pleasurable. They might also notice an absence of enthusiasm for work as well as social relationships. People suffering from depression are less likely than women to seek treatment. This can be because of a number of factors, including the belief that men are capable of "tough it out," as well as the perception that depression is a sign of weakness. More men are opening up about their experiences with depression which reduces the stigma and encourages others to seek help.
Unlike women, who are more likely to experience depression as feelings of despair or sadness, men find it easier to express their emotions in anger and aggression. This could be because of cultural pressures to act tough, which causes many men to hide their emotions or use unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol or drug abuse. Additionally, men who suffer from depression may struggle to express their feelings of grief and loss.
It is sometimes difficult for family members and friends to spot a man's depressive symptoms particularly if the signs are different from the women. People suffering from depression may be irritable, withdrawn or have changes in their sleeping patterns or appetite. In addition, those affected by depression are more likely to feel physical discomfort or other bodily sensations that could make it difficult for them to express their feelings.
In addition to the loss of enjoyment in daily activities, men who are struggling with depression are at a higher chance of experiencing issues such as erectile dysfunction and other sexual issues. Therefore, it is important for anyone who suspects he may be depressed to speak with an expert in medical care immediately.
recognizing signs of depression and treating depression can affect a man's quality of life.
identifying early signs of depression treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening and can enhance communication at work and home. In addition to medication, counseling with a skilled mental health professional is beneficial in treating depression.
2. Anger or aggression
People with depression may struggle to express their emotions and their symptoms could differ from women's. For instance some men might feel irritable and snap at everyone, while another will feel constantly agitated or anxious. Men may be unable to recognize their changes in behavior or emotions, particularly if they are in denial.
Depression can trigger physical issues too, including an inability to eat and sleep disorders, as well as pains throughout the body. These issues can be a sign of an condition that is underlying, like a persistent headache or back pain that hasn't been diagnosed.
The symptoms of depression may be accompanied by aggression or anger and aggression, which is a common symptom among men. It can happen when they are caused by an unpleasant memory or feeling like a feeling of failure at work, a disagreement with a family member, or the death of someone close to them. They may feel as if they are under attack or that their life is in danger.
Men may misinterpret
cognitive signs of depression of depression like a propensity for anger, or may believe that expressing emotions isn't considered masculine. Some men try to hide their depression by engaging in unhealthy behaviors like drinking excessively or focussing on work. These activities temporarily lessen the pain, but they ultimately make it worse.
Men who suffer from depression should speak to someone in their family or friends about their feelings. If they suspect they're showing any of the symptoms that indicate depression, they should seek help.
Depression is a serious illness that can lead to suicide among those not receiving treatment. In Australia seven people commit suicide every single day. Many people are not receiving the care they need.
It is important that people know the symptoms of depression so that they can be alert for them, both within themselves and within their families and friends.
identifying early signs of depression intervention can prevent depression from getting out of control, and a person can seek help through therapy or the use of antidepressant medications.
3. Feelings of despair
Depression can make a person feel depressed and as if life is not worth living. These feelings can be so intense that they can trigger thoughts of suicide, which is one of the most common causes of death among men. While depression is a serious illness, there are ways to improve your mood and ensure that you live longer. Recognizing depression in yourself or others is the first step.
Many people, including high profile politicians and athletes, are now openly talking about their struggles with depression This has helped reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. The more people are aware of the warning
signs of depression in teens that men might be suffering from depression, the easier they'll be able to seek treatment.
It's important to keep in mind that even though feelings of despair and suicidal thoughts are commonly associated with depression, it's not a sure sign of the disease. It is possible for a male to be depressed and not be experiencing suicidal thoughts. Some men also experience feelings of hopelessness as a result of other medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, or cancer.
Despite this, it's still common for men to avoid or deny the symptoms of depression because they believe that they're not "real." This is largely due to the expectation that men should be able to control their emotions and not express their feelings. This can hide depression-related symptoms in men, who may employ unhealthy coping strategies like aggression, alcohol or drug abuse.
A variety of physical symptoms could be indicators of depression, such as headaches, digestive problems or chronic pain. Insomnia, irritability, and an inability to focus are also common. Men who are affected by depression may have trouble focusing at work or in their personal relationships. They may also show less interest in sexual activity and are more likely to suffer from sexual dysfunction that could be an effect of certain antidepressants.
Men who are concerned about a loved one's health should discuss with them how they feel However, it is important to do this in a safe, non-judgmental setting. Encourage them to think about therapy, which helps to reduce depression and improve mood. If they're hesitant about speaking to a counselor they can try online counseling with BetterHelp. This will connect them with a licensed professional therapist within 48 hours.
4. Physical symptoms
When we think about depression, we typically think of someone who is extremely sad. Depression can be characterized by a variety of symptoms such as sadness. Other signs include irritability, and feelings of despair. A lot of these symptoms are also related to physical issues like headaches, aches and pains, weight fluctuations, and insomnia. In addition, some people suffering from depression may suffer from issues with their sexual drive. It is crucial to talk about your physical and emotional symptoms to a doctor so they can be diagnosed.
Men are less likely to talk about their emotions than women, making it more difficult for them to get treatment. As a result, they tend to downplay or ignore their depression symptoms. If you suspect that a male relative or friend is suffering from depression, offer him support and encourage them to seek help. It is also essential to remind him that depression is a medical issue and will not get better by itself. Men often believe that asking for help is not a good idea, and they are supposed to be able to handle their depression on their own.
Depression can affect someone's home, work as well as social interactions. It can cause problems with relationships and even job losses. In extreme cases, depression can lead to thoughts about suicide or self-harm. Depression can be treated through medication, therapy or a combination of both.
Inpatient or partial hospitalization for psychiatric treatment for men who are very seriously depressed, at risk of harming themselves or others, or are unable to care for themselves at home, it may be necessary to receive inpatient or partial hospital psychiatric care. This type of treatment provides 24 hour psychiatric services under clinical supervision. This can include group, individual and family counseling and medical services such as blood tests and X rays.
Depression is a serious illness that can cause long-lasting, harmful effects if it is not treated. If you or someone you love are experiencing symptoms of depression, it's important to seek treatment as soon as you can. You are not in any way a failure or weak in seeking assistance. It is the best thing you can do to get back to regular life.