(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/human-givens-institute-logo.png)Depression Symptoms in Men
Men may have difficulty talking about their feelings, and they might try to hide the signs of depression. Men who don't acknowledge depression may suffer severe consequences. They are four-times more likely to take their own lives.
While discussions about mental health seem to be getting more open, there is still an unspoken stigma for men, and depression recognizing depressive symptoms can be difficult to recognize. Understanding how men experience depression can assist them in receiving the treatment they require.
1. Feelings of despair or worthlessness
Men don't always recognize the common signs of depression such as feelings of despair or feeling devalued. This may be due to their culture, which tells them to keep emotions to themselves even though it's unhealthy. Men are more likely to avoid talking about their feelings, which makes it difficult for family and acquaintances to discern that something is wrong.
Many people suffering from depression do not realize they have a mental illness and therefore do not seek assistance. This is especially relevant for men. Men who do not seek treatment may experience issues in a variety of areas of their lives, such as their health, work performance and relationships with other people. If they continue for too long without treatment depression may cause thoughts of suicide.
Depression can cause more than just a bad mood. It can also cause other problems such as difficulties in concentrating or taking action. For instance, people who are depressed may exhibit more anger or irritability or take risks they would not normally think about, like driving recklessly.
Depression is treatable, but can be difficult to recognize. If you have depression or know a man who is depressed, speak to your doctor or counselor. There are treatments available, such as psychotherapy and medication.
2. Feelings anger or irritation
Men who suffer from depression are more likely to exhibit symptoms of irritability or anger. This could be due to the fact that they are unable to express emotions that make them feel vulnerable, like sadness. They may also have a tendency to resort to alcohol or drugs as a way to mask their feelings, which can create problems later on.
Symptoms of depression in men may manifest as physical symptoms such as headaches, back pain, or digestive problems. It is essential to consult a physician about these symptoms, so that depression that is causing the problem can be treated.
Despite the fact that depression is just as common for men as it is for women, many men have a difficult time getting diagnosed and treated. This could be due to cultural beliefs regarding how men and women should behave, or because many men are reluctant to admit they have depression. Depression is treatable through therapy or medication. The first step is to recognize the signs of depression in men which can include feeling depressed and empty or depressed for most of the day for more than two weeks. Then, seek advice from an expert in mental health to receive treatment.
3. The loss of interest in things you used to love
(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/coe-2023.png)Men are usually reluctant to seek help or discuss their feelings, possibly because they think that depression is a sign of weakness or that they should “man up.” This can cause them to not get the treatment they need, and cause more harm.
A lack of enthusiasm for activities that are meant to bring enjoyment is one of the most common signs of depression. This is known as anhedonia, and it can be extremely distressing for the sufferers. It is easier to deal with this if you have someone to talk to, like a family member or friend who can help.
A lack of interest could also lead to people avoiding social events, and also not engaging in other activities or hobbies. This can have a huge impact on self-esteem and relationships. It can also impact the performance of your job, and could lead to an increase in unhealthy habits such as excessive drinking or gambling regularly.
A GP can diagnose depression, and provide the appropriate support. This may include psychotherapy or medication. Neurofeedback, which is a noninvasive technique, has also been proven to be effective for some people. This method monitors brainwaves and can be performed from home.
4. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Men with depression have difficulty thinking clearly and making the right decisions. They may also have trouble remembering things. If these symptoms persist for longer than two weeks and don't disappear over time, they could be a sign of a long-lasting depression disorder (also called high-functioning depression).
Men are diagnosed with depression less often than women. Women and men can experience different symptoms, and some people are not seeking help.
For instance, some men struggle to express their feelings, particularly if they're worried that it will affect their relationships or careers. Some men may be reluctant to seek a diagnosis of mental illness because of the stigma surrounding depression, or because they believe it's a sign of weakness.
It is crucial to anyone who suspects a friend or family member is suffering from depression to talk about their concerns with them. Encourage them to visit their doctor, and to be honest about how they're feeling. Start by asking about physical symptoms, and then ask about how they feel emotionally. Then they can talk about what they should do next. If they're concerned about the possibility of suicide, they can call a suicide hotline to get support.
5. Inability to sleep or stay asleep
For men, depression symptoms may manifest as physical problems such as headaches as well as aches and pains. fatigue or digestive issues. They can be accompanied by irritability or a lack of interest in social activities and relationships. These issues can lead people to a pattern of avoidance like drinking a lot to ease their pain or working a lot with no balance. This can affect the quality of life for these individuals and increases their risk of developing depression.
Anyone who is depressed or considering suicide should seek assistance as quickly as is possible. If you or someone you know is at danger, dial Triple Zero (000) or Lifeline at 13 11 14.
While the symptoms of depression may be different for men than for women, they share some common triggers such as loss of loved ones or health issues, or financial difficulties. However, the manner in which men are affected by these symptoms is difficult to determine due to their tendency to conceal or suppress these symptoms.
A doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and perform a physical examination to diagnose depression. The doctor might also suggest tests in the lab to determine the root cause of your health problems. They will then apply the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to determine if you suffer from depression.
6. Weight loss and loss of appetite
People with depression usually aren't given the support they require. It could be that they don't know the early signs of depression or symptoms they are experiencing or believe it's “unmanly to talk about” their feelings. They may feel compelled to cover up their emotions by drinking alcohol, taking drugs, or engaging in risky behaviour.
It can be difficult for the people who are around them to realize that a man is depressed. People who are close to him might be able to help him by encouraging him to seek help and pointing him to the fact that depression isn't something to feel ashamed of.
If a person decides to seek treatment, it is vital that he evaluates all of his options for care. Many people find that talking therapy (such as cognitive behavior therapy or group support) is helpful, while others may benefit from medication. Other non-invasive treatments like neurofeedback have also been proven to be effective.
Anyone who suspects someone close to them may be suffering from depression should speak with a mental healthcare professional as soon possible. The disorder can affect personal relationships, daily routines and work if not addressed. It could lead to people to commit suicide which poses a significant danger for everyone involved.
7. Feelings of worthlessness or worthlessness
Men may also experience depression following a trauma, such as being injured, taking part in a war, or witnessing the aftermath of a natural catastrophe. Depression is often caused by PTSD which is a condition often diagnosed among military and veterans. It is normal to feel sad and feeling “down in the dumps” however when these feelings persist for longer than two weeks, it may be an indication of depression.
Unlike women, who typically utilize “emotional” techniques of coping such as crying and sadness, a lot of men employ a variety of behavioral coping strategies. Men are more likely to be prone to anger, irritability and excessive workaholism. They may also have suicidal thoughts and attempts. It isn't known how depression affects men in different ways, but it could be related to hormonal, biological or genetic differences or to the way traditional male roles limit the expression of emotions and encourage an emphasis on the power, competition and accomplishment.
It is crucial to seek treatment the very first sign that you're depressed. This will stop your symptoms from getting worse and result in permanent damage to your life. There are many options for treatment, such as medications, talk therapy, and non-invasive treatments like neurofeedback. These can help to address the root cause.