Recognizing Depression Symptoms in Men
While discussions about mental health have grown increasingly open and compassionate, many men are struggling to express their emotions. As a result, they can often miss depression symptoms in themselves or in others.
The good news is that men can combat depression through counseling and medication, or even lifestyle changes. NYU Langone’s team of experts in psychology provides an overview of the signs and symptoms of depression men are most likely to experience and gives suggestions on how to seek treatment.
1. Loss of interest in activities
Men who are depressed often experience a lack of enjoyment in the activities they usually find enjoyable. They might also lose interest in their jobs and social interactions. Men with depression are less likely than women to seek treatment. This is due to a variety of reasons, including the belief that “man ought to be able” to “tough out” the condition and the belief that depression is a sign of weakness. More men are speaking out about their experiences with depression which reduces stigma and encourages others to seek help.
Men are likely to express anger and aggression more frequently than women who feel depressed as feelings like sadness or despair. This could be because of cultural pressures to act tough, which leads many men to hide their emotions or to resort to unhealthy coping methods like alcohol and addiction to drugs. Furthermore, men who are depressed may also struggle to express their feelings of grief and loss.
This is why it is often difficult for friends and family members to understand that a man is depressed particularly when the symptoms of severe depressive episode appear differently than women. Men who suffer from depression might be angry or withdrawing and may have changes in appetite or sleeping patterns that indicate the presence of the condition. Men who suffer from depression may also feel physical pain or other bodily sensations that could make it difficult to express their feelings.
In addition to the loss of enjoyment in daily activities, men who suffer from depression are at a higher risk for problems such as sexual dysfunction and other issues. This is why it is important for any man who suspects they are depressed to consult a medical professional right away.
Recognizing and treating depression could be a significant influence on a man’s quality of life. Early treatment can stop the symptoms from getting worse, and it can also aid in improving communication skills in the workplace and at home. In addition to medication, therapy with a skilled mental health professional is also beneficial in treating depression.
2. Anger or aggression
Men with depression can have difficulty expressing their feelings, and their symptoms may be different from women’s. For instance, one man may feel irritable and snap at everyone while another may be constantly restless or edgy. Men may also have difficulty being able to recognize their emotional and behavioral signs of depression changes, especially if they are denying the fact that they’re sick.
Depression can trigger physical issues as well, such as the loss of appetite, sleep disorders, and pains throughout the body. These symptoms can be an indication of an underlying illness such as a chronic headache or back pain that hasn’t been diagnosed.
The symptoms of depression can be accompanied by anger or aggression, which is a common manifestation in men. This can occur when they are triggered by something that triggers a negative memory or feeling, such as a failure at work, a fight with a loved one or the loss of a loved one. They may also feel like they are being targeted by other people or that their lives are in danger.
Some men miss the signs of feeling down of depression for example, a tendency for anger, or may think that expressing their emotions is not manly. Men may attempt to hide depression by engaging in unhealthy habits like drinking excessively or focussing on work. These behaviors numb the feelings in the short run but in the end, they make them worse.
Men who are depressed should speak to someone in their family or friends about their feelings. If they suspect that they’re showing any of the symptoms that indicate depression seeking help, they should seek out professional help.
Depression is a serious condition that can cause suicidal thoughts in those who do not receive treatment. Around 7 people commit suicide in Australia every day. Many people aren’t receiving the medical treatment they require.
It is crucial for people to be aware of the signs of depression so that they can look out for them in themselves as well as their family members and friends. Early intervention can stop depression from spiralling out of control. Moreover, a person can seek help through therapy or by taking antidepressant medication.
3. Feelings of hopelessness
Depression can make a person feel hopeless and believe that life is not worth living. These feelings can be so intense that they can trigger thoughts of suicide. Suicide is one of the most preventable causes of men’s deaths. Although depression is a grave condition, there are ways to improve your mood and help you live longer. Recognizing depression in yourself or others is the first step.
Many people, including famous politicians and athletes are now talking openly about their struggles with depression which has helped reduce stigma around mental health issues. The more people are aware of the warning signs that men might be suffering from depression, the more easy they will find it 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 is not a definite sign of the disease. It is possible for a male to be depressed and not have suicidal thoughts. Men can also experience feelings of despair as a result of other medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, or cancer.
Men are often unable to acknowledge or even deny their depression symptoms despite the fact they are aware that they exist. This is due to the belief that men have to be able to control their emotions and not express them. This can cause depression behavioral symptoms of depression to be hidden in men, who might use unhealthy coping strategies such as aggression or drinking or using drugs.
A variety of physical symptoms may be signs of depression, like headaches, digestive problems, or chronic pain. Insomnia and irritability as well as fatigue are also typical. Men who suffer from depression may be unable to concentrate on their personal or professional relationships. They may also be less interested in sexual relationships, and more likely to suffer sexual problems. This can be a side-effect of antidepressants in particular.
Men who are concerned about a loved one’s health should discuss with them how they are feeling however, they should do it in a non-judgmental environment. Encourage them to consider therapy, which can help manage depression and improve mood. If they’re hesitant about speaking to an experienced counselor or therapist, they can try online therapy through BetterHelp which can match them with an accredited therapy therapist in just 48 hours.
4. Physical symptoms
When we think of depression, we typically imagine someone who appears to be extremely sad. However, sadness is only one of the many symptoms that can come with depression. Other symptoms include irritability and feelings of hopelessness. Many of these symptoms are also linked to physical issues like headaches, pains and aches, weight fluctuations, and insomnia. Depressed people may also have issues with their sexual desire. It is important to discuss all of your physical and emotional symptoms with a physician so that they can be correctly diagnosed.
Men are less likely than women to talk about their issues with their emotions, which makes it 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 depressed provide him with support and encourage them to seek help. It is also crucial to remind him that depression is a medical condition and that it won’t improve by itself. Many men believe that asking for help isn’t male and they are supposed to manage their depression on their own.
Depression can affect a person’s social interactions, work, and the home life. It can lead to problems with relationships and even job loss. In severe instances, it may lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Depression can be treated through therapy, medication or the combination of both.
Inpatient or Partial Hospital Psychiatric Treatment – This type of treatment is for people who are extremely depressed and at risk of causing harm to themselves or others or who cannot manage their own health at home. This kind of treatment provides 24-hour psychiatric care under the supervision of a psychiatrist. This can include individual, group or family counseling, as in addition to medical services like blood tests and X-rays.
Depression is a serious condition that can have long-lasting negative effects if it is not treated. If you or someone you love are experiencing symptoms of depression, it is important to seek treatment as soon as you can. You aren’t in any way a failure or weak when you seek help. It is the best thing to do to help yourself get back to normal life.