Researchers estimate that more than 6 million men in the United States suffer from depression. And yet, as we reported in October, many fail to seek treatment or even realize what's wrong with them.
Recognizing depression in men can be difficult even for those familiar with its signs. Influenced by societal pressures to stay in control or "just suck it up" along with associations of mental illness with weakness, men may express depression in such a way that misses typical criteria for diagnosis. Rather than sad, men may feel angry or frustrated; rather than talking about their feelings, men may mask them with excessive work, drugs or alcohol. Some, seen as perpetually grumpy or boyishly reckless, may in fact be expressing depressive symptoms.
What then are the symptoms of depression in men? Like women, they may often experience one or more of the classic signs of depression including persistent sadness or emptiness, weight gain/loss, and thoughts of suicide. However, they may also express depression in ways more focused on acting out agressively or masking feelings of shame and weakness. The following is a non-exhaustive guide:
Symptoms of Depression in Men
- Loses interest in hobbies, sex and other enjoyable activities.
- Hides feelings from family and friends.
- Complains of vague physical ills ("not feeling so good") such as headaches, digestive problems and bodily pains.
- Feels "burntout."
- Experiences sleep disturbances or lack of sleep.
- Is unusually angry, irritable or hostile.
- Rejects or withdraws from loved ones and parenting duties.
- Blames others for feelings and problems.
- Acts out violently or abusively.
- Throws himself into work.
- Engages in reckless or risk-taking behavior.
- Self-medicates with alcohol, drugs, sex or gambling.
Link: NIMH: Real Men. Real Depression.
Link: Newsweek article, Men & Depression: Facing Darkness
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