Both men and women can be affected by a medical illness known as depression. For a variety of reasons, men and women deal with depression treatment in quite different ways. The fight against “denial” and the idea that “as males, we are powerful” are the two key ones.
Male depression, if untreated, may be a crippling mood illness that interferes with almost every aspect of your life. Although depression can affect anybody, males may exhibit different symptoms than women do.
The American Psychological Association (APA) estimates that 9% of American males have daily depressive symptoms. The necessity for raising awareness about males and depression is obvious when you consider that men have suicide rates that are four times greater than those of women in the United States.
We need to pay more attention to some of the indicators of male despair in particular if we want to make the necessary changes since depression manifests differently in males than it does in women. Continue reading to find out more about depression in males, how it varies from depression in women, some of the reasons why it frequently goes misdiagnosed, coping strategies, and more. Knowing as much as you can about depression might be the turning point you’ve been searching for if you or a guy in your life is experiencing it.
Depression in Men vs. Women
Both the symptoms of depression that men and women experience and their readiness to talk about their feelings might differ significantly. When it comes to depression causes, men and women share certain commonalities. For instance, any gender’s family history might increase risk. Stress can also act as a catalyst for both sexes. Despite this, there are several notable distinctions between the two.
How it differs
Men are more prone than women to exhibit external symptoms of depression, which is a significant distinction between the two genders. Women who are depressed may experience weight gain, increased hunger, and anxiety. They may also sleep excessively.
The difference in depression symptoms between men and women is mostly due to hormones. A lot of the time, men’s mood struggles are reflected in their anger, aggressiveness, and hatred. Men and women exhibit sleep disorders and hunger shifts in distinct ways.
Conversely, men are significantly more prone to conceal their symptoms. Usually, they don’t allow themselves to grieve as much or show their unhappiness in public. They are more likely to utilise drug misuse as a coping strategy. The possibility that males may try to endure their sadness rather than seek treatment is perhaps the most alarming factor.
Unfortunately, clinical depression is similar to many other mental health illnesses in that it can get worse and do more harm if you put off getting help.
How Common is Depression in Men?
More than 30% of males report having had a protracted bout of depression at some time in their lives, according to the APA. There is a catch to the assertion that women experience depression more frequently than men. Depression can frequently be misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed for a longer period of time because symptoms manifest differently in males. Statistics showing that women experience depression at a higher rate than males may be the result of underdiagnosis.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Men?
Each male may have a different set of depression-related signs and symptoms. Not every symptom will be felt by every person. Some people may have a small number, whereas others may have several or all of them. The following are typical signs of depression in males.
- Restlessness or feeling anxious
- Anger or irritability is not to be confused with manic depression or bipolar disorder
- Aggressive behaviour
- Risky behaviour
- Escapist behaviour
- Controlling, abusive, or violent behaviour
- Problems with sexual desire
- Loss of interest in work
- Lots of interest in things that were once interesting
- Feeling sad or empty
- Feeling hopeless
- Feeling tired but not able to sleep
- Feelings of excessive guilt
- Sleeping too much
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty remembering details
- Changes in eating habits either eating too much or not enough
- Physical pain cramps, headaches, digestive problems
- Partaking in high-risk behaviour
- Inability to meet work, life, or other important responsibilities
- Substance abuse
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Suicidal thoughts
- Suicide attempts
Common Causes of Depression in Men
Some guys are more prone to developing depression at some time in their lives due to a few risk factors. Frequently, a combination of the risk factors listed below might contribute:
Environmental Stress
Environmental stresses such as money troubles, a difficult relationship, bereavement or loss, employment issues, significant life changes, or essentially any event that is very stressful can cause depression in males.
Genetic factors
Is depression heritable, as many people speculate? In actuality, a family’s history may be a significant factor in depression. Men may be more prone to being depressed themselves if they have relatives who suffer from the illness.
Illness
Men’s depression can also be influenced by serious diseases. Depression may intensify as a result of some illnesses, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and others. Additionally, a drug that is frequently taken to treat a health issue may
Male Depression & Suicide
Although women attempt suicide more frequently than men do, males are more likely to be successful in their efforts despite the fact that depression can lead to suicidal thoughts or conduct. There are a few causes for this, including:
- Men tend to use more severe methods when attempting suicide, such as guns.
- Men may be more impulsive when they have suicidal thoughts.
- Men tend to show fewer warning signs they’re less likely to talk about suicide before attempting it.
How to Cope with Male Depression
It might be challenging, but it’s not impossible, to deal with male despair. For many guys, it might be difficult to ask for assistance, but realising that if you don’t get therapy, your depression will probably become worse can be motivating.
Conflict may arise in practically every facet of life if depression is left untreated. Treating your depression with therapy, medication, or a mix of the two can be the first steps you take toward becoming a better, happier version of yourself, with implications for your work life, interpersonal connections, and personal safety.
Finding Treatment for Male Depression
You can start with your primary care physician or another healthcare professional if you believe you are depressed and are prepared to get treatment for it. Online materials can also be useful resources. A fantastic resource list is available from the National Institutes of Mental Health. Self-help methods, spravato treatment, individual treatment, and support groups can all play a significant role in your recovery.
Therapy
Certain types of evidence-based talk therapy (also known as psychotherapy) are better for depression treatment than others. Some therapy techniques include:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
- Problem-solving therapy
- Medication
Male depression can be treated with a variety of antidepressants. It’s crucial to remember that one may take antidepressant medication for a few weeks to start functioning. Some suffer unpleasant side effects including restlessness, headaches or nausea, jitters, difficulties with intercourse, and irritability. It’s crucial to remember that there are other medications available to treat depression besides antidepressants. You can discuss a number of various sorts with a doctor.
An approximation of the earlier drugs that many men avoided because of their sexual negative effects. Men who don’t have similar worries about side effects can safely treat their depressive symptoms with a new generation of drugs.
Brain Stimulation Therapy
The usage of brain stimulation therapy is still going strong today. While previous treatments have failed to alleviate severe depression, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be employed. Another type of brain stimulation that has been authorised for the treatment of depression is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
Self-Help Techniques
Are you unsure about how to deal with treatment resistant depression on your own? Men with depression can benefit from self-help practices including mindfulness, meditation, exercise, yoga, and writing.
You are shown extraordinary fortitude by deciding to get help for your depression. You should be proud of the investment you’re making in your own mental health.
