Depression can affect anyone, regardless of gender identity, whether male, female, or mixed-gender. Depression can be a serious condition that can affect how someone thinks, feels and acts.
According to data, women are more likely to suffer from depression than men. These numbers may not be representative of men, however.
It could be because of a combination of biological and social factors that makes it harder to diagnose and treat depression in men. They might also feel culturally compelled to behave “manly” by hiding emotions.
Men are more likely to experience depression, with symptoms difficult to spot and different from women.
You may suspect that someone you care about may be suffering from depression. Read on to find out what signs and symptoms men might experience and what you can do.
Symptoms of depression in men
Depression may be noticed by men who are depressed at first. Depression is often thought to be a mental disorder. However, it can also manifest as physical symptoms.
Many men are more likely to visit their doctor for physical problems than emotional concerns.
Men can experience depression when they have the following symptoms:
- chest tightness
- Constipation, gas, and diarrhea are all signs of digestive problems.
- Erectile Dysfunction and Other Sexual Problems
- Headaches
- Hormonal issues such as low testosterone
- Pain
- Heart palpitations or racing heart
- Unintentional weight loss (and sometimes weight gains)
Depression symptoms in men
Depression symptoms may be more apparent in men than women, so it is important to recognize depression early.
These symptoms can affect the way that a person thinks or processes information. This could lead to a change in behavior and emotions.
Men are most likely to experience depression when they have the following symptoms:
- Inability to focus
- Memory problems
- Obsessive-compulsive thinking patterns
- Racing thoughts
- Sleep problems are usually difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep.
- Suicidal thoughts
Depression symptoms in men
Most people associate depression with someone who is very sad. Depression can lead to sadness, but that’s only one possible emotion.
Men may also experience sadness and the following symptoms of depression:
- Agitation
- aggression
- anger
- Emotional withdrawal from family and friends
- hopelessness
- Indifference to family, community, hobbies, or work
- Lack of libido
- Restlessness
Behavioral signs and symptoms of depression in men
Depression in men can harm behavior. Men are often reluctant to talk about their emotions, so their behavior symptoms are most noticeable to others.
Men most often experience depression when they have the following behavioral symptoms:
- It isn’t easy to meet work, family, or other personal responsibilities.
- drug misuse
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
- Engaging in dangerous activities such as driving recklessly, or unprotected sexual relations
- Social isolation
- suicide attempts
How can depression be left undiagnosed in men?
While there are more conversations about mental health and compassion than ever, there is still some stigma attached to depression among men.
Although it is not healthy, we are taught by society that men should be held in their emotions. Many men are sacrificing their mental, emotional, and physical well-being in their attempts to keep these social norms alive.
Many men don’t know how to recognize less common signs than others, and they may not be taught how to recognize them.
Because they don’t recognize the signs, some men won’t seek treatment for depression. Some men who recognize the signs might have trouble sharing their experiences with others because they fear being judged.
Many men who experience depression find it difficult to stop working long hours and become distracted from the problem.
It is possible to save lives by seeking treatment for depression. The suicide ratesTrusted Source is high in men, particularly those who served or are currently serving in the Military. Men are three-to-four times more likely to commit suicide than women.
We can help men suffering from depression recognize signs by having open conversations. Men with depression can live full lives by seeking treatment.
What are the options for treatment?
Talk therapy, medication, or both are the most common ways to treat depression. A healthcare professional can help you create the best treatment plan for you.
Men often begin treatment for mild depression by seeing a psychotherapist (talk therapist). The therapist may suggest certain types of care such as:
- Cognitive-behavioral Therapy
- Interpersonal Therapy
- Problem-solving Therapy
- psychodynamic therapy
If necessary, medication can be added.
For more severe cases of depression, medication may be required immediately to treat the symptoms. This may be the case for someone who is suicidal or has attempted suicide.
Commonly, antidepressants like paroxetine or sertraline (Zoloft) are used to treat depression. A mental healthcare professional might recommend other medications.
These medications can take several weeks or months before you notice a difference in your mood. Keep your eyes open and be patient.
