Depression in Men
Many people often overlook depression in men, as the condition (major depressive disorder or clinical depression) was once considered a “woman’s disease.” In addition, oftentimes men experience symptoms differently than women. This lack of recognition often prevents men from recognizing their symptoms and getting the help they need.
SYmptoms
The signs and symptoms of depression vary. Common symptoms of depression in men include:
- Anger or irritability
- Feeling sad or hopeless
- Loss of interest in work, relationships, and/or once enjoyable activities
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Feeling anxious or on-edge
- Engaging in high-risk activities
- Increased alcohol consumption
- Decreased sexual desire
- Trouble concentrating
- Physical aches, pain, nausea, or discomfort
- Suicidal thoughts
Causes and RIsk Factors
There are many causes and risk factors for depression, current studies within the United States suggest risk factors for depression include a combination of:
- Genetics
- Environmental stress
- Other medical conditions
Treatment
Depression can be treated through a variety of methods. After receiving an evaluation from a healthcare provider, they can help you create a treatment suited to you. Treatment plans commonly include a combination of:
- Medication
- Antidepressants are the most common medication used to treat depression. However, sometimes mood stabilizers and antipsychotic medications may also be prescribed, but are much less common.
- Psychotherapy
- Various types of psychotherapy can be used to treat depression, and have been proven to be very beneficial for many. Commonly used types of psychotherapy used in the treatment of depression include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and family-focused therapy.
- Self Help
- In addition to professional help, self help can also be beneficial. Individuals can often lessen their symptoms through self help. Symptoms of depression are often decreased by exercise, getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and more.
Crisis Help
If you or a loved one is in a crisis, it is important to get help immediately. If in danger of suicide:
- Call 911
- Go to the nearest emergency room
- Call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255); TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (1-800-799-4889)
Learn More
- To learn more about depression in men, we recommend contacting your healthcare provider.
- To read more about depression, the following resources are suggested:
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