A Step-By Step Guide To Symptoms Of Depression In Men
Symptoms of Depression in Men
Men can suffer physical symptoms such as headaches and aches and pains as well as emotional feelings of hopelessness and lack of interest. Rather than seeking help, they may vent their anger or aggression.
It's normal to feel down at times however depression can impact your relationships, work and eating habits, as well as your enjoyment of life. Here are a few of most frequent signs of depression for men:
1. Loss of interest
Men suffering from depression might notice a decrease in enthusiasm for activities they usually enjoy. They might feel bored or uninterested and could lose interest in hobbies that they normally enjoy like playing sports or engaging in other escapist activities like watching television or playing video games for long periods of time. Most of the time, these symptoms are the first ones to appear and could cause a reluctance to seek treatment.
This is in part due to the stigma surrounding mental health issues. While there are numerous conversations taking place now about the importance of mental health, it's difficult for some people to acknowledge and discuss these issues. Men may be especially reluctant to seek help when they suffer from depression due to the way that their illness affects them.
Men also tend to show more subtle signs, which makes it difficult to identify. Unlike women, who typically suffer from feelings of despair and sadness when they are depressed, men are more likely to display aggressive emotions, such as anger and aggression, according to Verywell Health. These changes in behavior may be the result of culture-based expectation that men should be strong and adroit. This could obscure the real underlying issue.
This is why many men aren't diagnosed with depression. It is important to be aware of the ways depression symptoms differ for men and to understand that it is perfectly normal for some men to experience these nuances. This knowledge can motivate those suffering from depression to seek treatment. However, if a man feels that they are in imminent danger or is experiencing suicidal thoughts, it's vital to contact emergency services immediately.
2. Feelings of hopelessness
Men may be overwhelmed and depressed with their circumstances when struggling with depression. These feelings can be a sign that it's time to seek help. It can be difficult for men to admit that they are depressed. Family members and friends should encourage the person to seek help.
Men who struggle with depression are more likely to consume alcohol and engage in risky behavior than those who do not suffer from the disorder. These behaviors may be a result of trying to hide their feelings and adhere to "masculine" norms, or they can be a symptom of the depression itself.
Men can also show symptoms of depression, such as being angry and irritable. These emotions are often expressed in a threatening way. Road rage, for example, is common in people who are depressed. Men with depression can also be irrational towards their family members. These outbursts of anger are result of a variety of causes, such as stress at work, relationship problems and health concerns.
Many people are unable recognize depression in their loved one because the symptoms vary from person to person. One person may be angry, while another is withdrawing. People who suffer from depression may confuse their feelings with other mental health issues like bipolar disorder or medical conditions such as chronic pain and undiagnosed autoimmune disorders.
It is crucial to recognize symptoms of depression in men and to speak to them in a way that they can express their emotions. Men who suffer from depression are more likely to commit suicide than those who don't and it's essential that they reach out for help. If they're reluctant to seek help because they think it's not "manly," it's important to remind them that depression is a real condition that won't go away by itself.
3. Feelings of devalued
Men might feel like they are not able to help others, especially if their depression is severe. They might feel hopeless and have a loss of enthusiasm for activities they normally like, such as work or hobbies. These feelings can make them believe that they can't improve and they don't have any reason for trying to find solutions.
They can also be easily angered or agitated, which can affect their relationships and ability to work. They are also less likely to seek treatment for their symptoms. In fact the National Library of Medicine states that primary care physicians miss depression in men more than 50 percent of the time. Men tend to focus on the physical symptoms and not talk about the emotional ones.
This reluctance to admit they're struggling has contributed to the stigma that surrounds mental health issues, particularly depression. It's vital that those who are close to those suffering from depression acknowledge the signs and encourage them to seek treatment.
Despite the challenges there is a way for someone suffering from depression to recover with help. You can find relief by using therapy, medication or a combination of both. The first step is finding a therapist who understands male mental health issues and can help them overcome them. BetterHelp is a convenient service that connects you to licensed and accredited therapists who can offer depression treatment or other support for mental health. Complete the assessment for free to get started.
Depression is an extremely serious mental health issue that affects millions of people across the globe. The good news is that the appropriate treatments can improve people's mood, which can improve the quality of life and improved emotional health.
4. Feelings Of Guilt
One of the most common symptoms of depression is feelings of guilt. Men may feel guilty for a variety reasons, including anger, irritability and reckless driving. severe clinical depression symptoms may be temporary or last for months or even weeks. Because men are more hesitant to talk about their emotions and feelings, they may not be aware that their feelings are linked to depression and might not seek treatment.
Anger is usually a sign of depression, and can vary from irritability to short temper to road rage or abuse. Anger is usually a reaction to a sense of disappointment or failure, especially as a man approaches middle age. A man who is suffering from depression will internalize his feelings and blame himself rather than acknowledge that the depression is due to depression.
Men can also engage in an escapist behavior, for example, drinking too much or playing video games for hours on end, to avoid dealing with their depression. This can have serious consequences for your health. It's important to recognize these symptoms in the family member or a friend and act.
It's also important to recognize that depression is a mental illness and that it is unlikely to improve on its own. Although antidepressants can ease some symptoms, it is important to talk to a therapist and follow self-help steps such as exercise, yoga and healthy eating to address the underlying issue. Talking to a trusted friend or family member can also assist men who are depressed. However certain men might be reluctant to talk about their depression for fear of being perceived as being a "victim".
5. Anxiety
People with depression can also experience anxiety or a sense of agitation. Most of the time, this is because they are feeling trapped in a situation and feel unable to change it. People who experience this are less likely than women to seek help as they don't realize that it is an indication of depression and not weakness. They may also be unable or unwilling to express their feelings and may be unable to ignore their feelings. This makes it difficult for others to see something is wrong.
Untreated male depression can negatively impact all aspects of life including work, relationships and your personal security. In fact, males are four times more likely to take their own lives than women. The reason for this isn't completely evident but it could be due to the fact that men are less likely to seek help, or because they are more driven when they do attempt to seek help.
Understanding the differences between women and men's experiences of depression is important. This is especially important when identifying symptoms in a family or friend member. Men are better at recognizing physical symptoms of depression, such as fatigue and lack of appetite. However they are less likely to spot emotional changes. Therefore, it is crucial that your family and friends are alert and keep an eye out for any changes in behavior that could be caused by depression.
Anyone who is concerned about the mental health of a person should speak to them honestly and in a manner that is supportive. This will help to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues and help the person to seek the support they need. Contact the Beyond Blue suicide hotline at 1300 224636 if you are worried about someone who may be at risk of self-harm or suicide.