Recognizing Depression Symptoms in Men
Although 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 signs in themselves or in others.
The good news is that men can combat depression through counseling and medication, or even lifestyle modifications. NYU Langone's team of experts in psychology gives an overview of the symptoms of depression that men typically experience and provides tips on how to seek treatment.
1. Loss of interest
Men who suffer from depression often have difficulty enjoying activities they normally find pleasurable. They might also experience losing enthusiasm for work and social interactions. This is why men who have depression are less likely to seek assistance for the illness than women. symptoms of mania and depression can be due to a combination of factors, including the belief that men are able to "tough it out," as well as the belief that depression is a sign of weakness. More men are opening up about their experiences with depression which reduces stigma and encourages others to seek help.
Men may express their anger and aggression more than women who feel depressed as feelings like sadness or hopelessness. This can be a result of pressures from society to be tough, which causes many men to conceal their feelings or resort to unhealthy coping strategies like alcohol and drugs. Additionally, men who are depressed may also have difficulty expressing their emotions of sadness and grief.
As a result, it can be difficult for friends and family members to recognize that a man is suffering from depression and the signs appear differently than women. Men who are suffering from depression may be irritable or withdrawn and may have changes in appetite or sleeping patterns that signal the presence of the disorder. Similarly, men who are suffering from depression may be more likely to feel physical discomfort or other bodily sensations that could make it difficult for them to express their feelings.
In addition to a loss of pleasure in daily activities, men who are struggling with depression are at greater risk of developing problems like erectile dysfunction and other sexual issues. It is crucial that any man who suspects he may be depressed seeks medical attention immediately.
The recognition and treatment of depression can have a profound effect on a man's quality of life. Early treatment can stop symptoms from becoming worse and improve communication at home and at work. Counseling with a mental health professional can be helpful in treating depression, along with medication.
2. Agression or anger
Men who suffer from depression may have a difficult time expressing their emotions, and their symptoms may be different from women's. For instance some men might feel irritable and snap at everyone while another may be constantly anxious or restless. Men may also have trouble understanding their mood and behavior changes, especially if they are denying the fact that they're sick.
In addition to having an impact on the mind depression can also trigger physical problems such as an inability to eat, sleep disturbances, and physical pains. In some cases, these problems can be a sign of an underlying condition that is not being diagnosed, for example, a chronic back pain or headache.
The symptoms of depression can be accompanied by aggression or anger and aggression, which is a common manifestation in men. It can happen when they are triggered by something that triggers a negative memory or feeling such as a loss at work, an argument with a loved one, or the death of a loved one. It could also be that they feel they are being attacked by others or they are in danger.
Men may misinterpret symptoms of depression in their own lives, like a tendency to be angry, or believe that expressing emotions is not manly. Some men may try to hide depression by engaging in unhealthy behaviors like drinking excessively or focusing on work. These actions can dull the emotions in the short-term but in the end, they make them worse.
It's important for men who are aware that they're suffering from depression to discuss their feelings with a friend or family member. They should also seek help if they think they are showing any of the warning symptoms.
Depression is a serious condition which can lead to suicide in those who are not receiving treatment. In Australia seven people take their own lives every single day. This is because many people don't receive the treatment they need.
It is important to know the signs of depression in order to be aware of them in themselves as well as their friends and family members. Early intervention can stop depression from escalating out of control. A person can seek help through therapy or the use of antidepressant medications.
3. Feelings of hopelessness
Depression can make someone feel depressed and as if life is not worth living. These thoughts can become so strong that it leads to thoughts of suicide. Suicide is among the most preventable causes of death for men. While it is a serious disease, there are steps that can be taken to help people feel better and live longer. Recognizing depression in yourself or in others is the first step.
Mental health stigma has been reduced by a number of people, including athletes and politicians. The more people are aware of warning signs that men could be suffering from depression, the less difficult they will find it to seek treatment.
It is important to remember that, even when feelings of hopelessness or suicidal thoughts are typically associated with depression, it's not always an indication. It's also possible for a man to feel depressed, but not have suicidal thoughts. There are times when men feel a sense of despair because of other medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease or cancer.
Despite this it is still commonplace for men to ignore or deny the symptoms of depression because they feel that they aren't "real." This is partially because of the expectation that men are capable of controlling their emotions and refrain from expressing them. This can mask the signs of depression in men who employ unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol or drugs.
A myriad of physical symptoms can also be signs of depression, such as digestive issues, headaches or chronic pain. Insomnia and irritability are also common, as is fatigue and sleeplessness. People with depression might have difficulty focusing on their personal or work relationships. They may also show less interest in sexual relations and are more likely to suffer from sexual dysfunction which could be an consequence of antidepressants.
Men who are worried about a loved-one should discuss with them their concerns, but in a non-judgmental environment. Encourage them to consider therapy, which can help reduce depression and improve mood. If they are nervous about talking to a counselor, they could try online counseling through BetterHelp. This will connect them with an experienced professional licensed therapist within 48 hours.
4. Physical symptoms
When we think of depression, we typically think of someone who is extremely sad. But sadness is just one of the many signs that can come with depression. Other symptoms include irritability losing interest in certain activities and feelings of despair. Many of these symptoms can also be linked to physical ailments like pains and headaches or weight changes, as well as insomnia. Depressed people may also have issues with their sexual drive. It is important to discuss all of your physical and emotional symptoms with a doctor, so that they can be properly diagnosed.
Men are less likely than women to discuss their emotional problems and this makes it difficult for them to get treatment. This is why they tend to minimize or ignore their depression symptoms. If you suspect that someone in your family member is suffering from depression it is essential to provide support and encourage him to seek treatment. It is also crucial to remind that depression is a medical condition and that it won't be cured by itself. Men often think that asking for help isn't appropriate and they ought to be able to handle their depression on their own.
Depression can affect someone's social interactions as well as work and home life. It can cause problems with relationships and even job loss. In severe instances, it could cause thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Depression can be treated through medication, therapy or a combination of both.
Inpatient or partial hospitalization psychiatric care - For men who are extremely depressed, are at risk of harming themselves or others, or are unable to take care of themselves at home, it might be necessary to undergo inpatient or partial hospital psychiatric treatment. This type of treatment provides 24-hour psychiatric supervision under the supervision of a clinical therapist. This may include individual, group and family counseling, as well as 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. It is essential to seek immediate help in the event that you or someone you know is suffering from symptoms of depression. In seeking help, it doesn't make you weak or ineffective and is the most effective way to return to a normal lifestyle.