Symptoms of Depression in Men
Men may be afflicted by physical symptoms such as headaches and aches and pains as well in feelings of despair and a loss of interest. They may not seek help and instead express their frustration by expressing anger or aggression.
It's normal to feel down at times However, depression can have a negative impact on your relationships, work and eating habits, as well as your enjoyment of life. Here are a few of the most frequently reported depression symptoms:
1. Loss of interest
Men suffering from depression can lose interest in activities they typically enjoy. They might feel bored and sluggish, or lose interest in the activities they normally like, like sports or other escapist pursuits like watching TV, or playing video games, for hours at a time. Often, these symptoms are the first ones to appear and can cause a reluctance to seek treatment.
This is partly because of the stigma that surrounds mental health issues. While there are more discussions on mental health, a few people still find it difficult to discuss and recognize these issues. Men may be especially reluctant to seek help when they have depression due to the way their health condition affects them.
Additionally, the first signs of depression are usually more gradual in males, making them harder to recognize. Unlike women, who typically suffer from feelings of sadness and hopelessness when they are depressed, men tend to exhibit more aggressive emotions, such as aggression and anger, according to Verywell Health. These behaviors shifts are often a result of cultural expectations that men should be tough and calm, which can mask the true underlying issue.
This is why so many men aren't diagnosed with depression. It is essential to be aware of how depression symptoms differ in men, and to recognize that it is perfectly normal for some men to experience these variations. This awareness can help men to seek treatment for their depression to be better. If a person feels in imminent danger, or has suicidal feelings, he should contact emergency services immediately.
2. Feelings of hopelessness
The men may be overwhelmed and depressed with their circumstances when struggling with depression. These emotions are a sign that is the time to seek help. It can be hard for men to admit they're depressed. Family members and friends should encourage them to seek help.
People who suffer from depression are more likely alcohol and engage in risky behaviours than those who do not suffer from the condition. These behaviors could be the result of a desire to conceal their feelings and conform to "masculine" norms, or they can be a symptom of the depression itself.
Irritability and anger may be signs of depression in men, and these emotions are typically displayed in aggressive ways. People who are depressed are more prone to road anger. Men with depression may also be angry with their loved family members. These angry outbursts can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stressors at work, personal relationship problems and health issues.
Many people have trouble recognizing depression in their loved ones due to the symptoms can be different between people. One person may be angry, while another is withdrawn. People who suffer from depression may mistake their feelings with other mental health issues like bipolar disorder, or medical conditions like chronic pain and undiagnosed autoimmune diseases.
It's crucial to recognize the signs of depression in men and to talk with them about their feelings. Men who suffer from depression are more likely than those who do not to commit suicide, therefore it's important that they seek help. If they're hesitant to seek treatment because they think it's not "manly," it's important to remind that depression is a real illness that won't go away by itself.
3. Feelings of inadequacy
Men might feel like they are not able to help others, particularly when their depression is severe. They may feel depressed and experience a loss of interest in the activities they typically like, such as work or hobbies. This can cause people to believe that they'll never get better and that it's futile to try and find solutions.
They are also easily irritable or agitated, which can affect their relationships and ability to perform their jobs. In the end, they're less likely to seek treatment for their problems than women are. In fact, the National Library of Medicine states that primary care physicians don't recognize depression in men more than 50% of the time. Men tend to focus on physical symptoms, and do not discuss the emotional ones.
The inability to acknowledge that they're struggling has led to the stigma that surrounds mental health issues, specifically depression. symptoms of depression and anxiety for those who know someone suffering from depression to be aware of the signs of the illness and encourage them to seek treatment.
With the right treatment A person suffering from depression can recover. There is relief using medication, therapy or a combination of both. The first step is to find an experienced therapist who is aware of male mental health issues and can help overcome them. BetterHelp is a convenient service that connects you with licensed and accredited therapists to offer treatment for depression or other mental health services. Complete the assessment for free to get started.
Depression is a serious illness that is affecting millions of people around the world. The good news is the appropriate treatments can boost someone's mood and result in a better quality of life.
4. Feelings of guilt
Feelings of guilt are a frequent indicator of depression. Men may feel guilty for a variety reasons, including anger, irritability, and reckless driving. These feelings may be temporary or last for months or weeks. Men are less likely to speak about their feelings, and they might not be aware that these feelings are linked to depression. They may not seek treatment.
Anger can be an indication of depression. It can range from irritability to road rage. It's also due to a feeling of disappointment or failure particularly when a man is approaching mid-life. Often, a man who is depressed will dwell on his feelings and blame himself, rather than acknowledge that the depression is caused by depression.
Men may also exhibit an escapist behavior, for example, drinking excessively or playing video games for hours, to avoid dealing with depression. This could have serious implications for your health. It's crucial to recognize these symptoms in the family member or a friend and act.
It's important to remember that depression can be an illness of the mind and will not disappear by itself. While antidepressant medication can ease some symptoms, it's important to consult a therapist and follow self-help steps such as exercise, yoga, and a healthy diet to address the root of the issue. Men who are depressed may also find relief by talking to a trusted family member, but it may be difficult for some men to talk about their feelings because they feel that seeking therapy is "unmanly" or that they will be viewed as a victim.
5. Anxiety
Men who suffer from depression can feel anxious or restless. It is often because they feel trapped in a situation and feel powerless to change it. People who feel this way are less likely to seek help since they don't realize that this is a sign of depression, not a weakness. They may also be unable to communicating their emotions and often ignore their feelings, which makes it harder for others to notice that something is wrong.
Men who are depressed and untreated can affect all aspects of life including relationships, work and your own security. Men are four times more likely than women to take their own lives. The reason for this is not entirely certain but it could be because men are less likely to seek help, or that they are more driven when they do attempt to seek help.
Understanding the differentiators between women and men's experiences of depression is crucial. This is especially important when identifying the signs of depression in a family or friend member. Men are more likely to recognize physical symptoms of depression, like fatigue and loss of appetite, but they are less in recognizing changes in their emotional state. It is therefore important that family and friends remain attentive and look out for any changes in behavior that could be the result of depression.
People who are concerned about the mental health of a man should speak to them honestly and in a supportive way. This will help reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues in general and will also inspire the person to seek the help they need. Contact the Beyond Blue suicide hotline at 1300 22 4636 if you are concerned about someone you think is at risk of suicide or self-harm.