By Depression in men is often looked upon. In a world where mental health is still highly controversial to talk about, depression in men and other mental health-related topics are still considered to be taboo. Men’s depression is a very serious condition and while people neglect it without any notice, it is increasing every day. Understanding depression in men, signs of depression in men, and its symptoms along with its eternal consequences are very important to be discussed so that timely intervention is taken.
Understanding Depression In Men
As of now, depression is the number one cause of death and suicide in the world. According to the latest research depression in men is common and it affects 1 in every 8 men at some point in their lives. According to research done in Australia, sadly 7 men die by suicide in Australia every day. This number is, however, sadly increasing.
Blame it on the avoidance of depression symptoms in men, or the depression stigma in men, the statistics and the ongoing number of deaths because of depression suggest that ist high time that we talk about depression in men.
While depression can occur to anybody regardless of there gender, it must be noted that depression in men is different from that in women. While some women can express their emotions, one of the symptoms of depression in men is the unhealthy coping mechanisms that men show when they are in depression. In men, depression may be hidden under unhealthy coping mechanisms where they don’t tend to talk it about to others. In many cases, male depression is often not diagnosed and treated which leads to serious consequences and tragic results.
Continue Reading
| What is personality growth and how to do it? |
| Digestive health, its factors, and tips on how to maintain it |
| Understanding Fecal Microbiota Transplantation: What It Is and How It Works |
Causes Of Depression In Men
While depression in men seems to be potentially growing every day, there are many causes and factors behind this in men. Depression in young men can be attributed to many things.
One of the many causes of depression in young men is:
- Drug abuse
- Unemployment
- Abuse of any kind
- Financial responsibility and money-related problems
- Divorce and complications in relationships
Other Causes of Depression
- Biological Factors
There are many other causes of depression as well. Many people often attribute it to biological factors as well. Some men experience depression at a very young age as it runs in their families which suggests a genetic component. So therefore men who have a history of depression in their family are more susceptible to depression.
- Brain Chemistry
Neurotransmitters that are chemicals in the brain that alter the mood of men and can also be responsible for depression in men as the imbalances in dopamine, endorphin and other chemicals can lead to depression and other severe mental health problems.
- Past Trauma
Oftentimes, past trauma can be a result of depression in men. One of the many reasons why have unhealthy coping mechanisms is also because they have been experiencing past and childhood trauma from a very young age. Personal loss and emotional tragedies can exacerbate depression in men.
- Work-Related Stress
High levels of stress at the workplace or job can also create a sense of loneliness and void. Depression in men is also increasing because of the harsh “work culture “.
- Depression Stigma In Men
Another very big reason why depression in men is becoming prominent is because there is a certain stigma that is associated with mental issues and especially with men. Men are often suppressed to not talk about their mental health and struggles, which leads to tragic and horrific results.
Depression In Men Vs Women
Depression although occurs in both genders, is differently experienced in both genders. Both males and females experience it very differently and they have different tendencies for it.
According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), women are 15.3 more likely to experience depression as compared to men. While women experience it in different phases, men also experience it differently. While women reach out for help, men don’t. Women can be more vocal about their mental struggles as compared to men and it takes a while or most times, not any time for men to speak up. Men usually bottle up their emotions.
As far as the symptoms are concerned then, in women depression can often be diagnosed with sadness and tearfulness a feeling of unworthiness. On the other hand, symptoms of depression in men can be more on the other of the spectrum, which means that they feel more angry and irritable as compared to women. This leads to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis.
What Is Post-Partum Depression In Men?
Postpartum depression is often linked with only women but in reality, men also experience postpartum depression severely. Postpartum depression in men which is also known as Paternal postnatal depression is depression that fathers experience when children are born.
It usually occurs after the birth of their child. While it has similarities with maternal depression it can manifest differently in men due to psychological and social factors. Men mostly with postpartum depression are the ones who experience irritability and anger.
Symptoms Of Major Depression In Men
Depression in men can vary and be different for every individual out there however there are some recurring signs and symptoms that we see too often. These are some of the signs that you get to see in men who experience depression.
- Signs of loneliness
- Feeling of tiredness
- Having a hard time sleeping and talking to someone
- Sudden bursts of crying
- Lack of focus and concentration
- Having the inability to talk to someone
- Trouble getting along with otters and especially family members
- Not vetting pleasure in talking to someone
- Getting angry or agitated
- Feeling of nauseousness
- Digestive issues and reckless behavior
- Withdrawal from any sort of social activity and relationships
All these symptoms may vary from person to person, but these are some major signs and symptoms of depression in men. It is also important to note that these signs might overlap or lead to something else.
Depression Diagnosis With Men
These signs can help anyone realize that a man must be going through depression. These signs and symptoms are enough for anybody to understand and know that this particular person is going through depression or a hard time.
Depression Treatment For Men
There are many different ways and treatments in which depression diagnosis in men can be done. While it is important to acknowledge depression in men, it is also very important to note that some men find it very hard to share their emotions therefore initiating a conversation is the first step towards understanding depression in men.
Once the conversation is done, make sure that you move forth with a medical treatment which is consulting the doctor. Meanwhile, during this time, you can help them and pressure them.
There are some methods by which depression in men can be treated these include:
- Therapy for male depression
- Medications
- Physical treatment
- Psychological treatments like CBT and interpersonal therapy
- Counselling
Conclusion
Male depression is a serious yet frequently disregarded problem that needs more knowledge and attention. Although men and women are equally prone to depression, males may have different symptoms and encounter particular difficulties in identifying and obtaining treatment for their illness. Men may feel pressured by cultural norms and societal expectations to repress their feelings, which can result in an underdiagnosis and subpar care. Timely intervention necessitates an understanding of the telltale indicators of depression in men, which include irritability, aggression, disengagement, and risk-taking behaviors. Men who are experiencing depression can greatly benefit from increased accessibility to mental health resources, reduced stigma, and open communication. We can improve the mental health and general quality of life of men impacted by this widespread disorder by creating an atmosphere where men feel encouraged and empowered to seek help.
Unfold Content
| Visceral Hypersensitivity | Inner Peace and its Importance |
| Tips on how to mindfully tackle nervous breakdown | When life gets hard, these three mindful tips can help to get some relief |
FAQs
What is depression in men?
Depression is a serious condition and this condition is prevalent in both females and males. In men, depression is often characterised by the feeling of loneliness, lack of interest and no sort of physical activity. It affects how a man thinks, feels and reacts in his life. Depression in men is a common factor in suicide.
What are the common signs of depression in men?
In men, there are a plethora of signs and symptoms. However, some most prevalent signs are:
- Persistent sadness or low mood
- Irritability or sadness
- Feelings of sadness and hopelessness
- Anxiety or excessive worry
- Reduced interest in activities that were once enjoyed
- Chronic pain or physical tiredness
- Sleep disturbances and insomnia
- Headaches and digestive issues
How is depression different in men compared to women?
Depression is a condition that is common and frequent in both women and men. Although it occurs in both of them, it also varies and differs. While women feel sad and exhibit symptoms like tearfulness and sadness, in men signs like anger irritability and agitation are more prevalent. Men are more likely to be inclined towards physical abuse and harm.
What causes depression in men?
Depression is a multidimensional condition and there seem to be many causes and factors for it. However, there are some causes and factors that are more common in men than in women. For men, these are some causes:
- It runs in the families.
- Brain chemistry is which neurotransmitters affect one’s mood and chemicals inside their brain.
- Hormonal imbalances
- Lifestyle changes
- Childhood trauma and past emotional losses
- Relationship issues and heartbreaks
- Social isolation
- Poor health habits
Is it common for men to experience depression?
Yes, it is very common for men to experience depression in fact as of now it is one of the leading causes of death. One of the reasons why many men commit suicide is because they shut down every time they feel little talking about depression. There is a stigma that is attached to mental health issues.
Is it possible to prevent depression in men?
Yes, it is very possible. In fact, after diagnosis, they can be treated with different methods. These include therapies, medications, physical treatments and more.
