Depression Symptoms in Men
Men can have a hard time talking about their feelings, and they may try to cover up depression symptoms. Men who don't acknowledge depression may suffer serious consequences. They are four times more likely to commit suicide.
While conversations about mental health seem to be opening up but there is the stigma that men face and the signs of depression can be difficult to recognize. Knowing what depression looks like in men can help them get the treatment they need.
1. Feelings of despair or hopelessness
Men don't always recognize the signs and symptoms of depression that are typical, like feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. This may be because of their culture, which teaches them to keep their feelings from others even though it's unhealthy. Men also have a harder to talk about their emotions, which makes it hard for family members and friends to know there's something wrong.
Some people with depression don't know they have a mental health problem and don't seek help. This is particularly the case for men. People who do not seek treatment might face problems in a variety of areas of their lives, 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 just a mood swing. It can also trigger other issues, such as difficulty concentrating or taking actions. For example, men who are depressed might exhibit more anger or irritability than usual or take risks they would not normally take, such as driving recklessly.
Depression is treatable, but it can be difficult to recognize. If you suffer from depression or know a man who is depressed, talk with your doctor or counselor. There are treatment options available, including psychotherapy and medication.
2. Feelings of anger or irritation
Men who suffer from depression could be more likely to show symptoms of irritability and anger than women. This is because they aren't able to express emotions that make them feel vulnerable, for example sadness. They could also be inclined to use substances like alcohol or drugs as a way to hide their emotions, which could create problems later on.
The signs of depression in men can manifest as physical problems like back discomfort, or digestive problems. These symptoms should be discussed with a physician to ensure that depression can be treated.
Many men find it difficult to get diagnosed and treated for depression, despite the fact that depression is as common among men as it is in women. This could be due to cultural beliefs about the way men and women should behave, or because some men are reluctant to admit they have depression. Depression is treatable through therapy or medication. The first step is to identify the symptoms of depression in men, which include feeling sad, empty, or hopeless throughout the day for more than two weeks. Get help from a mental healthcare professional.
3. Loss of interest in the things you once enjoyed
Men often find it difficult to express their experiences or seek help, possibly because they believe that depression is an indication of weakness, or that they must "man up." This could cause them to not receive the treatment they need and can cause problems worse.
A lack of enthusiasm for activities that are meant to provide pleasure is one of the classic symptoms of depression. This is called anhedonia and can be very distressing for those affected. It can be more manageable If you have someone to talk to, for example, a friend or family member who can help.
In addition, the lack of interest in certain activities could result in people avoiding social gatherings and not engaging in their hobbies or other interests. This can have a major impact on relationships and self-esteem. It can also impact productivity at work and lead to unhealthy behaviors like excessive drinking or gambling.
A GP can diagnose depression and provide the appropriate assistance. This may include medication or psychotherapy. Certain non-invasive methods like neurofeedback have also been shown to be effective for certain people. depression symptoms for men and can be done from home.
4. Inability to concentrate, or making decisions
Men with depression may have trouble making decisions and thinking clearly. They may also have difficulty remembering things. If these symptoms continue for longer than two weeks, and don't improve with time, it could be a sign of persistent depression.
Men are diagnosed with depression less frequently than women. This is mainly due to the symptoms can be different for men and women, and because some people do not seek assistance.
For instance, some guys have trouble talking about their feelings, especially if they're worried that it could affect their careers or relationships. They may also be hesitant to seek an assessment for mental health due to the stigma associated with depression or because they believe that it's a sign of weakness.
Anyone who suspects that a person they know or family member may be depressed should speak to them about the concerns with them. Encourage them to go to their doctor and be honest about the way they're feeling. It's a good idea to start by talking about their physical symptoms, then move on to discussing how they're feeling emotionally. They can then discuss what they should do. If they're worried about the risk of suicide, they could contact a suicide hotline for assistance.
5. Inability to sleep or remain asleep
For men, symptoms of depression may manifest as physical problems like headaches or aches and pains, digestive problems or fatigue. They may also present as anger or a lack of interest in activities or relationships. These issues can lead individuals to engage in avoidance behaviors, such as drinking excessively to numb their feelings or working obsessively without a sense of balance. This in turn can impact the quality of life for people with these disorders and increases the risk of depression.
It is important for anyone experiencing depression or considering suicide to seek assistance as soon as possible. If you or someone you know is at risk, contact Triple Zero (000) or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
While the symptoms of depression may be different for men than women, they do have common triggers like the loss of loved ones, poor health or financial problems. However, the manner in which men are affected by these symptoms is difficult to determine due to their tendency to conceal or suppress them.
To determine if you have depression, a physician will ask you questions about your current symptoms and perform a physical exam. The doctor might recommend lab tests to test for the root cause of your health issues. The doctor will use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria to determine if depression is present.
6. Weight loss or appetite loss
People suffering from depression typically don't receive the treatment they need. It could be because they don't recognize their symptoms, or they believe it's "unmanly" to discuss them. They might try to cover their feelings through drinking, using drugs, or engaging in risky behaviours.
It is also difficult for those who are around them to understand the signs that a person is depressed. People who know him well could be able to aid by encouraging him to seek professional help and pointing out that depression isn't something to be ashamed of.
It is crucial for a person to think about all his options before taking the decision to pursue treatment. Many people find that talking therapy (such as cognitive behavior therapy or group support) is beneficial, while others may benefit from medication. Neurofeedback and other noninvasive treatments have also shown to be effective.
Anyone who suspects someone else close to them could be suffering from depression should contact a mental health professional as soon possible. The condition can cause disruption to personal relationships, everyday life and work if it is not treated. It can even lead people to take their own lives which poses a significant risk for all involved.
7. Feelings of devalued and unworthiness
Men may also experience depression following a trauma, such as being injured, taking part in an war, or experiencing an event that is natural. PTSD, which is commonly diagnosed in veterans and service members, can result in depression. Feeling sad or feeling "down down" is a normal part of life however if you're experiencing these feelings for the majority of the day almost every day for two weeks or more, it is likely a indication of depression.
Unlike women, who tend to utilize "emotional" coping skills like crying and sadness, men use a variety behavioral coping mechanisms. Men are more likely to be prone to anger, irritability and excessive alcohol consumption. They might also experience suicidal thoughts and even attempt. It isn't known why men are more prone to depression. It could be due to hormonal, genetic or biological variations, or the fact that traditional male roles discourage emotional expression and encourage a focus of accomplishment, power, and competition.
It is important to seek treatment at the first sign that you're depressed. This will prevent the symptoms from becoming worse and cause permanent harm to your life. There are a variety of treatments options, including medications, talk therapy and noninvasive procedures such as neurofeedback, which can help deal with the root of the depression.