Men and Depression

More than six million men in the United States suffer from depression every year. Although both men and women can develop the standard symptoms of depression, they often experience depression differently and may have different ways of coping with the symptoms. Whereas women often report feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and guilt, men may be more willing to acknowledge fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies, and sleep disturbances.

Depression is not the same as “feeling blue.” Depression is a serious medical condition that can affect your thoughts, your mood, and your body. People with depression cannot merely “pull themselves together” and get better. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years.

Although depression can strike anyone, research has shown that depression is about twice as common in women as in men. In the United States, it is estimated that depression affects more than ten percent of women and nearly seven percent of men. But it is still not certain if depression is truly less common among men or if men are simply less likely to seek help for depression.

Men often don’t even realize that they are depressed. Many are unaware that physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain, can be associated with depression. In men, an increase in episodes of anger can be indicative of depression.

Alcohol and drug abuse can make it harder to recognize depression as a separate illness requiring treatment. Men may turn to alcohol or drugs when they are depressed, or become frustrated, discouraged, angry, irritable, and, sometimes, violently abusive. Some men deal with depression by working excessively, attempting to hide their depression from themselves, family, and friends. Others may engage in reckless behavior, take risks, and put themselves in harm’s way.

The following are a list of symptoms indicative of depression. Not everyone who is depressed experiences every symptom. Some people experience only a few symptoms, some many. Also, the severity of symptoms varies among individuals and over time.

Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood.
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and enjoyable activities, including sex.
Decreased energy, fatigue.
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
Trouble sleeping, waking too early, or oversleeping.
Changes in appetite and/or weight.
Restlessness or irritability.
Persistent physical symptoms (such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain) that do not respond to routine treatment.
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.

As neurological research of the brain continues to reveal that depression is a real, treatable disorder, and no greater a sign of weakness than cancer or any other serious illness, it is hoped that more men with depression will seek treatment and find improved quality of life. Short-term psychotherapy and/or antidepressant medications greatly help most people who seek treatment for depression.