Depression Symptoms in Men
Men may have a difficult to talk about their feelings. They may try to cover up depression-related symptoms. Men who don't acknowledge depression may suffer severe consequences. They are four-times more likely to commit suicide.
While discussions about mental health seem to be opening up but there is a stigma for men and depression-related symptoms are difficult to spot. Understanding how men experience depression can assist them in receiving the treatment they need.
1. Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
Men who are not aware of the typical depression symptoms, such as feelings of despair or worthlessness. This may be because of their culture, which encourages them to keep emotions to themselves even though it's not healthy. Men are less likely to speak about their feelings, which makes it difficult for family members and friends to know that something is wrong.
Some people with depression do not realize they suffer from a mental illness and do not seek assistance. This is especially the case for males. Men who don't seek treatment may experience issues in many areas of their life, including their health, work performance and relationships with other people. Depression can trigger suicidal thoughts if men don't seek treatment for too long.
Depression can cause more than a mood swing. It can also lead to other problems such as difficulty in concentrating or performing actions. Men who are depressed might be more angry or irritable than they normally are, or might take risks they would not normally take, such as driving recklessly.
Depression is treatable, however it can be difficult to recognize. Speak to your doctor or counselor if you are depressed or have a loved one who is. There are many treatment options including psychotherapy and medications.
2. Feelings of anger or irritation
Men who suffer from depression tend to show signs of anger or irritability. This could be due to the fact that men aren't able to express emotions such as sadness, which can make them feel vulnerable. They might also be prone to turn to substances such as alcohol or drugs as a way to mask their feelings, which can create issues later on.
Symptoms of depression in men can manifest as physical problems like back discomfort, or digestive problems. These symptoms should be discussed with a doctor to ensure that depression can be treated.
Many men have difficulty to be diagnosed and treated for depression despite the fact it is as common in males as it is in females. This could be because of the cultural norms regarding what women and men behave, or because they are less willing to admit they suffer from depression. Depression can be treated with medication or therapy. The first step is to identify the symptoms of depression in men, which can include feeling depressed and empty or depressed throughout the day for a period of more than two weeks. Then, seek advice from a mental health professional to receive treatment.
3. Loss of interest in the things you once enjoyed
Men are usually reluctant to seek help or to discuss their feelings, possibly because they believe that depression is a weakness, or that they should "man up." This can lead them to not seek the help they require and make things worse.
Depression is characterised by the lack of interest in past activities that brought enjoyment. This is referred to as anhedonia and can be very troubling for those who suffer from. It can be easier to manage this If you have someone to talk to, like your family member or a friend who can help.
In addition, the lack of interest in activities can lead to people avoiding social events and not taking part in their hobbies or other interests. This can have a major impact on self-esteem and relationships. It can also impact productivity at work, and may result in an increase in unhealthy behaviors such as excessive drinking or gambling obsessively.
A GP can diagnose depression and provide necessary assistance. This may include medication or psychotherapy. Certain non-invasive methods like neurofeedback have also been proven to be effective for some people. This method can be practiced at home and monitors brainwaves.
4. It is difficult to concentrate, or taking decisions
Men with depression may have trouble making decisions and thinking clearly. They may also have difficulty remembering things. If these symptoms persist for a period of more than two weeks, and do not improve with time it could be a sign of persistent depressive disorder.
Men with depression are more often diagnosed in women. This is mainly due to the symptoms can be different for men and women and also because some don't seek assistance.
Some men are afraid to discuss their feelings because they fear it will harm their career or relationships. They may also be reluctant to receive an assessment for mental health due to the stigma associated with depression or the belief that it's a sign of weakness.
It is crucial for anyone who suspects a friend or family member is suffering from depression to talk about their concerns with them. Encourage them to see their doctor and talk to them about how they feel. They can start by discussing their physical symptoms, and then proceed to discuss how they're feeling emotionally. They can then discuss what to do. If they are concerned about the possibility of suicide they can call a suicide hotline for help.
5. Inability to fall asleep or stay asleep
Men's depression symptoms may manifest as physical problems such as headaches or aches, digestive problems, fatigue, or digestive problems. They can also manifest as irritability or a lack interest in relationships and activities. These issues can cause individuals to engage in avoidance behaviors which includes drinking heavily to numb their feelings or working obsessively with no balance. This can affect the quality of life of people with these disorders and increases their risk for depression.
Anyone who is depressed or contemplating suicide should seek help as soon as possible. If you or someone you know is at immediate risk, call triple zero (000) or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Although the symptoms of depression may be different for men than women, they have common triggers, like the loss of loved ones, poor health or financial problems. However, the way that men experience these symptoms can be difficult to recognize due to their tendency to hide or deny these symptoms.
To diagnose depression, a doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms currently and do a physical exam. The doctor might also suggest tests in the lab to determine the root cause of your health problems. They will then use the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to determine if you suffer from depression.
6. Weight loss or appetite loss
People with depression usually don't receive the treatment they need. It could be because they don't know their symptoms or they feel it's "unmanly to talk about" them. They may feel compelled to hide their emotions by drinking alcohol, taking drugs or engaging in risky behaviour.
People around a man may be unable to recognize depression. Friends and family members of him may be able help him by encouraging him to seek help and pointing him to the fact that depression isn't something to feel ashamed of.
If a person does decide to seek treatment, it's crucial that he thinks about all options available for treatment. Talk therapy (such a cognitive behavioral therapy or support groups) can be helpful for many people, whereas medications may be beneficial to others. Neurofeedback and other treatments that are non-invasive have also shown to be efficient.
It is also crucial for anyone who suspects they or someone they know might be suffering from depression to contact an expert in mental health immediately. Without treatment, the condition can be very disruptive to relationships as well as work activities. It could even lead suicide which poses a significant risk for all affected.
7. Feelings of inadequacy or worthlessness
Men can also suffer from depression following a traumatic event like a physical injury or involvement in a war, or witnessing the aftermath of a catastrophe. Depression can be caused by PTSD, a condition that is typically diagnosed among military and veterans. It is normal to be sad for a while and feeling "down in dumps" however when these feelings persist for longer than two weeks, it could be an indication of depression.
In contrast to women, who are more likely to utilize "emotional" coping skills like crying and sadness, many men use a variety behavioral coping mechanisms. Men are more likely to be prone to anger, irritability and excessive workaholism. They may also have suicidal thoughts and even attempt. It is not clear why men are more susceptible to depression. It could be due to genetic, hormonal or biological differences, or the way men's roles in the traditional male role discourage emotions and promote a focus of the power, achievement, and competition.
The first time you seek treatment for depression is when you recognize the sign of depression is very important to prevent symptoms from getting worse and causing permanent damage to your life. There are signs and symptoms of postnatal depression , including medications, talk therapy and non-invasive treatments like neurofeedback. These can help to address the root cause.