Recognizing Depression Symptoms in Men

Although discussions about mental health are becoming more friendly and open, many men struggle to express their emotions. They can miss depression symptoms, whether they're their own or the result of someone else's.

Fortunately, depression in men is treatable by counseling, medication or lifestyle modifications. To aid the sufferer, NYU Langone's experts in psychology give a brief overview of common depression symptoms in men and tips to seek treatment.

1. Loss of interest in activities

Men who suffer from depression frequently find themselves unable to enjoy activities they normally enjoy. They might also lose interest in their work and social interactions. People who suffer from depression are less likely than women to seek treatment. This is due to a variety of factors, including the notion that men are in a position to "tough it out," as well as the perception that depression is an indication of weakness. Fortunately, more men are opening up about their experiences with depression which is helping reduce the stigma that surrounds the condition and encourage others to get help.

Men are likely to express anger and aggression more than women who experience depression as feelings of hopelessness or sadness. This could be because of pressures from society to be tough, which leads many men to conceal their feelings or to resort to unhealthy coping methods like alcohol and drug abuse. Men who are depressed can also be unable to express their sadness and grief.

It can be difficult for family members and friends members to recognize that a man is suffering from depression and the subtle signs of depression are different from those of women. People suffering from depression may be depressed, anxious or experience changes in their sleeping patterns and appetite. People who are depressed might also suffer from physical pain and other bodily sensations, which may make it difficult for them to express their emotions.

Men who suffer from depression may also be suffering from erectile dysfunction and other sexual issues. It is therefore important for anyone who suspects that he is depressed seeks medical attention immediately.

The recognition and treatment of depression can have a profound effect on the quality of life for a man. Early treatment can stop the symptoms from worsening, and it can also help to improve communication skills at work and at home. In addition to medication, therapy with a skilled mental health professional is helpful in treating depression.

2. Anger or aggression

Men with depression often have a hard time expressing their feelings, and the symptoms they experience may be different from the women. One man may be angry and snap at everyone, while another feels restless or tense. Men may be unable to recognize their behavioral symptoms of Depression or emotional changes especially if they are in denial.

Depression can trigger physical issues as well, such as a loss of appetite and sleep disorders, as well as discomforts throughout the body. These problems can sometimes be an indication of an sub-clinical illness, such as a chronic headache or back pain that hasn't been diagnosed.

The symptoms of depression can also manifest as anger or aggression as a typical sign of men. It can occur when something triggers a negative emotion or memory, for instance an experience of failure at work or a disagreement with someone close to you, or even the death of a loved one. They might feel as if they are under attack or they are in danger.

Men can misinterpret signs of feeling down of depression within themselves, such as a tendency to be angry, or they may think that expressing emotions is not manly. Some men may try to cover up their depression by engaging in unhealthy behaviors such as drinking excessively or focussing on work. These activities temporarily lessen the pain, but they eventually make it worse.

Men who are depressed should discuss with an individual in the family or a friend about their feelings. If they suspect that they're showing any of the symptoms of depression, they should seek help.

Depression is a serious illness which can lead to suicide among those not receiving treatment. About 7 people commit suicide in Australia every day. Many people aren't receiving the treatment they require.

It is important for people to be aware of the symptoms of depression in order to detect them in themselves as well as their friends and family members. Early intervention can stop depression from spiraling out of control. Therapy or antidepressant medications are a way to combat depression.

3. Feelings of hopelessness

Depression can make someone feel hopeless and believe that life isn't worth living. These feelings can be so intense that they can trigger thoughts of suicide which is among the leading preventable causes of death among men. While depression is a serious illness, there are ways to improve your mood and help you live longer. The first step is to recognize the symptoms of depression in your own body and in others.

Mental health stigma has been reduced by a variety of people, including athletes and politicians. The more people are aware of the warning signs that men may be suffering from depression, the less difficult they will find it to seek treatment.

It's important to note that, while feelings of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts are often associated with depression, it's not a definite sign of the condition. It is also possible for a man to feel depressed, but not have suicidal thoughts. There are times when men feel a sense of despair because of other medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease or cancer.

Men are often unable to acknowledge or even deny their depression symptoms even though they know they exist. This is largely due to cultural expectations that men must be able control their emotions and not express them. This can mask depression symptoms for men who utilize unhealthy coping strategies, like aggression, alcohol or drug abuse.

Depression can also manifest itself in physical symptoms, such as headaches or digestive issues. Chronic pain is another common symptom. Insomnia and irritability as well as a lack in energy are also typical. People with depression might have trouble focusing on their personal or work relationships. They might also show less interest in sexual activity and are more likely to suffer from sexual dysfunction that could be an adverse result of certain antidepressants.

Men who are concerned about a loved one should discuss with them their feelings, but in a non-judgmental environment. Encourage them to consider therapy, which can help to improve mood and manage depression. If they are nervous about talking to a counselor, they could try online counseling through BetterHelp. This will connect them with an experienced professional licensed therapist within 48 hours.

4. Physical symptoms

When we think of depression, we usually imagine someone who appears to be extremely sad. But sadness is just one of the many signs that can come with depression. Other symptoms include irritability, loss of interest in activities, and feelings of hopelessness. Some of these symptoms may also be linked to physical signs of depression ailments like pains and headaches or weight changes, as well as insomnia. In addition, some people who are depressed may experience problems with their sex drive. It is important that you discuss your emotional symptoms of depression and physical symptoms to a doctor to be able to diagnose.

Men are less likely than women to speak about their feelings and this makes it difficult for them to receive treatment. They tend to ignore or minimize depression symptoms. If you suspect that you have a male friend or family member is suffering from depression, it is important to offer support and encourage him to seek help. Make sure to remind him that depression is not a normal occurrence and will not disappear on its own. Men often think that asking for help is not male and that they should be able to cope with their depression on their own.

Depression can impact a person's work, home life, and social interactions. It can cause relationship problems and even job loss. In severe cases, depression can cause thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Depression can be treated with therapy, medication or a combination of both.

Inpatient or partial hospital psychiatric treatment - For men who are extremely depressed, at risk for hurting themselves or others, or who are unable to care for themselves at home, it might be necessary to receive inpatient or partial hospital psychiatric treatment. This type of treatment provides 24/7 psychiatric care under clinical supervision. This can include individual, group and family counseling as well as medical services, such as blood tests and X-rays.

Depression is a serious disease that can cause long-lasting, negative effects if not treated. It is crucial to seek immediate help if you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of depression. Seeking help does not make you weak or ineffective and is the best way to return to a normal lifestyle.