Recognizing Depression Symptoms in Men
While conversations around mental health are becoming more open and compassionate, a lot of men struggle to express their emotions. In the process, they are often unable to recognize depression signs in themselves or others.
Fortunately, depression in men is treated by counseling, medication or lifestyle changes. NYU Langone's expert psychology team offers a comprehensive overview of depression symptoms that men are most likely to experience and gives suggestions on how to seek treatment.
1. Loss of interest in activities
Men who suffer from depression often find that they cannot enjoy the activities they usually enjoy. They may also experience an absence of interest in their work as well as social relationships. In the end, people suffering from depression are less likely to seek treatment for the illness than women. This is due to a variety of factors, such as 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 speaking out about their experiences with depression, which reduces stigma and encourages others to seek out help.
Contrary to women, who are more likely to feel depression as feelings of hopelessness or sadness, men find it easier to express their feelings in anger and aggression. This can be a result of pressures from society to be tough, which can cause men to hide their feelings or to resort to unhealthy coping methods like alcohol and drugs. Men who are depressed can also have trouble expressing their sadness and grief.
As a result, it can be difficult for family members and friends members to realize that a man is depressed particularly when the symptoms appear differently than women. Men who suffer from depression might be angry or depressed however, they may also experience changes in appetite and sleeping patterns that indicate the presence of depression. Men who suffer from depression may also suffer from physical pain and other bodily sensations, which could make it difficult to express their emotions.
Alongside the feeling of being bored in everyday activities, men who are struggling with depression are at an increased risk for problems such as erectile dysfunction and other sexual issues. Therefore, it is crucial for any man who suspects they are depressed to speak with a medical professional right away.
Making the effort to recognize and manage depression can have a profound impact on a man's life. Getting treatment early can prevent the symptoms from worsening and also help to improve communication skills at work and at home. In addition to medication, therapy with a qualified mental health professional can be helpful in managing depression.
2. Anger or aggression
Men who suffer from depression typically have a hard time expressing their emotions, and the symptoms they experience may be different from women's. One man may be angry, snapping at everyone while another is agitated or agitated. Men might also have difficulty recognizing their emotional and behavioral changes, especially when they are denying the fact that they are sick.
Depression can trigger physical issues as well, such as an inability to eat and sleep disorders, as well as discomforts throughout the body. These symptoms can be an indication of a sub-clinical illness, such as a chronic headache or back pain that has not been recognized as a sign of a underlying illness.
The signs of depression may also manifest as anger or aggression, which is a common sign of men. It can happen when they are triggered by something that triggers a negative memory or feeling like a feeling of failure at work, an argument with a family member, or the loss of a loved one. It could be that they feel like they are being attacked or they are in danger.
Men can misinterpret symptoms of depression in their own lives, like a tendency to be angry, or they may think that expressing emotion is not appropriate for men. Some men may try to hide depression by engaging in unhealthy behaviors such as excessive alcohol consumption or focussing on work. These actions can dull the emotions in the short-term but in the end, they cause them to get worse.
It's important for men who are aware that they're experiencing depression to discuss their feelings with a friend or family member. If they suspect that they're displaying any of the symptoms that indicate depression, they should seek help.
Depression is a serious condition that can lead to suicidal thoughts in those who do not receive treatment. In Australia seven people commit suicide every day. This is because many people do not receive the medical care they require.
It is important for people to know the symptoms of depression in order to look out for them in themselves and their relatives and friends. Early intervention can prevent depression from escalating out of control. A person can seek assistance through therapy or by taking antidepressant medications.
3. Feelings of despair
Depression can cause someone to feel like they are hopeless, and that life isn't worth living. These emotions can be so strong that they can trigger thoughts of suicide, which is one of the most common causes of death in men. Although depression is a serious condition, there are ways to improve your mood and ensure that you live longer. Recognizing depression in yourself or in others is the first step.
Many people, including prominent politicians and athletes are now talking openly about their struggles with depression which has helped reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. The more people are aware of the warning signs of depression in males and women, the easier it will be to recognize these signs and seek treatment if needed.
It is important to note that, even the feelings of despair or suicidal thinking are often associated with depression it is not always a sign. It is possible for a male to be depressed, but not suffer from suicidal thoughts. Some men also experience feelings of despair because of other medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease or cancer.
Despite these facts it is still commonplace for men to ignore or deny depression symptoms because they believe that they aren't "real." signs and symptoms of postnatal depression is partly due to the belief that men should be in control of their emotions and avoid expressing them. This can mask the signs of depression in men who utilize unhealthy coping strategies such as drinking or using drugs.
A range of physical symptoms may be signs of depression, such as headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain. Irritability and insomnia are common, as is fatigue and difficulty sleeping. Men experiencing depression may be unable to concentrate at work or in their relationships. They may also be less interested in sex and more prone to suffer sexual issues. This can be a side effect of certain antidepressants.
Men who are worried about a loved one should discuss with them their feelings, but in a non-judgmental environment. Encourage them to consider therapy, which helps to manage depression and improve mood. If they are nervous about speaking to a counselor they can try online counseling with BetterHelp. This matches them with a licensed professional therapist within 48 hours.
4. Physical symptoms
When we think of depression, we often picture someone who is very sad. Depression can have many symptoms that include sadness. Other symptoms include irritability lack of interest in activities, and feelings of hopelessness. A lot of these symptoms are also related to physical ailments like headaches, aches and pains, weight fluctuations, and insomnia. People who are depressed may also have problems with their sexual drive. It is crucial to discuss your emotional and physical symptoms with a physician to determine if they are depressed.
Men are less likely to discuss their emotions than women, which makes it more difficult for them to seek treatment. This is why they tend to minimize or dismiss depression symptoms. If you suspect a male family member or friend is suffering from depression provide him with support and encourage them to seek treatment. It is also essential to remind him that depression is a medical condition and will not get better on its own. Many men believe that asking for assistance is not appropriate for men, and they are supposed to be able to manage their depression by themselves.
Depression can affect someone's social interactions, work, and home life. It can cause relationship problems and even job loss. In extreme cases, it can result in thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Depression can be treated through therapy, medication or combination of both.
Inpatient or partial hospitalization for psychiatric treatment For those who are very seriously depressed, or are at risk of harming themselves or others, or are unable to take care of themselves at home, it could be necessary to seek out inpatient or partial hospital psychiatric treatment. This type of treatment offers 24/7 psychiatric treatment under the supervision of a clinical specialist. This can include individual, group and family counseling as along with medical services, such as blood tests and X-rays.
Depression is a serious condition that can last for a long time and cause negative effects if not treated. If you or a loved one are suffering from symptoms of depression, it is important to seek assistance as quickly as possible. In seeking help, it doesn't make you weak or unworthy and is the best way to return to a normal lifestyle.