Understanding the Symptoms of Depression in Men
Men may attempt to cover up their depression by drinking, obsessive work, or even avoiding relationships. These actions can help ease the pain temporarily, but they could cause addiction and health problems.
Despite the fact that discussions of mental illness seems to be getting more and more popular, depression is often misunderstood in various ways. Find out the signs of depression to be able to assist those close to you.
1. Mood swings
It is normal to have mood swings from time to time. Sometimes, mood fluctuations result from medical conditions, medications, or dietary and nutritional issues. Other causes are stress, relationships or work-related issues or the weather.
But if mood swings are frequent or rapid and significantly impact your life, you may be suffering from depression. Depression is more complicated than feeling sad or hopelessness. It can cause a variety of symptoms including fatigue, changes in appetite and issues with concentration, aswell as a loss of interest in the activities you typically like to do.
Men can also suffer from depression. Women are more likely to get it diagnosed. However, since men are less likely to speak about their experiences or seek treatment in the majority of cases, they have difficulty receiving help. Depression in men can manifest differently than depression in women and include anger and irritability, excessive risk taking or a deficient sense of self.
Untreated depression in men could cause serious consequences for men. Men are four times more likely to commit suicide than women. Learn to recognize symptoms of depression in men so that you or a loved one can seek treatment immediately. There are fortunately, effective treatments for depression that include psychotherapy and medication.
2. Anxiety
While conversations around mental health have been more inclusive and compassionate Many men struggle to express their emotions. They might think that depression is an indication of weakness, which is why they try to hide or minimize their symptoms. This can lead to serious consequences, particularly when they don't seek treatment.
Anxiety may be a sign of depression in both genders. Both genders may experience anxiety, but they might also exhibit physical symptoms such as tightened chest muscles, rapid heartbeat, or digestive issues. Additionally, some people might resort to unhealthy coping strategies like drinking alcohol or taking drugs to ease their symptoms.
In certain situations, anxiety or depression may cause a person to withdraw from social events. It is important to talk to an individual if you feel he is having difficulty participating in activities he once enjoyed. A person to talk to can be a valuable tool for recovery and a non-judgmental listener can assist them in overcoming any obstacles to receiving support. You can even get a referral to see a psychiatrist, psychologist, or any other mental health professional.
3. Depression
Men with depression might have difficulty expressing their emotions. Men are more likely to employ different strategies to cope than women, for example, working for long hours or occupying yourself with hobbies and sports. This can lead to feelings of emptiness or hopelessness and increase the risk of suicide.
While a decline in mood is a normal response to life's stresses, men who become depressed can struggle to think clearly and functioning normally in their daily lives. This can affect their relationships, work and overall enjoyment. It's essential to recognize signs of men's depression so they can seek assistance when necessary.
Alongside feeling down and depressed, people suffering from depression may feel irritable and angry all the time or experience physical pain, such as headaches or digestive problems. They might also have difficulty sleeping, or discover that they no longer enjoy the activities they used love. Depression can lead to various mental health problems, including the possibility of erectile dysfunction and an increased risk of substance abuse.
Men are often embarrassed to admit their depression or think it's a sign of weakness. However, just like a broken limb or serious wound, men must know that depression can be treated.
4. Anger
Men are less likely to share their emotions and may conceal depression symptoms through a variety of unproductive coping strategies such as anger or taking risks. If someone you know is always angry or is prone to taking risks, it is an indication that they require assistance. They should seek out an expert.
People who are depressed frequently exhibit anger due to having difficulties express their feelings of sadness. This can cause to them to misinterpret other's actions and intentions. They may also feel a strong need to shield themselves and their loved ones from harm and this may cause them react in a way that makes them feel angry.
Someone who is suffering from these symptoms of depression should seek out help and try to build relationships with people that make them feel safe and valued. They should seek counseling or join a support group to learn new techniques that can aid them in managing their feelings in a healthy manner. If a person is suffering from suicidal thoughts, they can call 911 or their local number for assistance in an emergency or text TALK (talk) to 741741. Iampsychiatry will be connected with an emergency counselor. These services are available 24/7 and are absolutely free.
5. Eating disorders
Men are often less likely than women to recognize, talk about and seek help for their depression. This can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of suicide.
It's not clear the reason why men experience different signs of depression as compared to women. It could be due to the different brain chemistry or hormones, or the roles that limit emotions and encourage the pursuit of success, power, and competition. In addition some men are hesitant to admit they're depressed and might not even be aware that they're suffering until it's revealed by a wife or loved ones.
Inability to eat and a lack of ability to have fun or enjoy relationships are signs of depression in men. Depression in men can be treated using a combination therapy including medication, self-help methods like exercise eating, diet, and sleep changes.
If you're struggling with feelings of sadness, hopelessness or anger, speak to an experienced friend or family member and consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Support groups for men struggling with depression can also be helpful. Don't forget noninvasive, drug free options to treat depression, such as neurofeedback.
6. Sleep issues
While everyone feels down from time to time, depression is different. It's not just an emotion of sadness, but it can also affect your daily routine. In fact, untreated depression is the most common cause of suicide in Australia with more than 7 people taking their own lives every day.
Many men like women, don't realize they're depressed and find it hard to express their feelings. It is important that loved ones are aware of the signs and symptoms associated with depression in men, so they can provide support.
If you suspect that a man in your life is acting differently, you should bring them to a mental health professional. A therapist can help them identify the root cause of their symptoms and provide solutions to alleviate them. You can also employ non-invasive techniques like neurofeedback to improve mood and manage depression.
Depression is a serious condition however, it is able to be treated. If you or someone you love is having thoughts of suicide, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 and talk to a trained counselor. You might also consider BetterHelp which is an online therapy service that connects you with licensed, accredited therapists who specialize in depression.
7. Sexual dysfunction
Men with depression may have issues with sexuality. They may have trouble getting an orgasm, or experiencing erectile dysfunction. Sexual issues are usually caused by depression, however they can also be caused from certain medications. For instance, certain antidepressants can cause a side effect of decreased libido or erectile dysfunction.
It's important to talk about these issues with a physician or therapist. It's also beneficial to talk to your partner about these issues. Talking about these issues could help men's depression symptoms.
If you're suffering from depression or simply feeling down, it's important to seek out support. Finding activities you enjoy and maintaining close relationships can help depression become less overwhelming. If you are unsure how to begin, talk to your doctor or an experienced therapist who is specialized in depression.
Depression is a complex illness that affects everyone in a different way. Depression is a tangled condition that affects people in different ways. With the right treatment however, most men can recover from depression and live healthier, happier lives. NYU Langone therapists use cognitive behavioral therapy to help patients understand how their thoughts, emotions and actions affect each one another.