Symptoms of Depression in Men
Men may experience physical symptoms such as headaches or aches and pains as well as emotional feelings like hopelessness and a lack of motivation. Rather than seeking help, they might express their emotions with anger or aggression.
It is normal to be down from time to the time, but depression alters how you think and affects your relationships and work eating habits, sleep and overall enjoyment of life. Here are some of the most common symptoms of depression in men:
1. Loss of interest
Men who are suffering from depression might feel depressed and lose interest in activities that they normally enjoy. They may feel drained or uninterested, and they might even lose interest in activities they typically enjoy, such as playing sports or engaging in other escapist activities like watching TV or playing video games for long periods of time. These symptoms can be the first signs to show, and they can cause people to be reluctant to seek treatment.
This is partly due to the stigma surrounding mental health concerns. Although there are numerous discussions being held regarding the importance of mental health, it's difficult for some people to acknowledge and discuss these issues. Men with depression may be more hesitant to seek treatment due how their condition affects them.
Additionally, the onset of symptoms is generally more gradual in males, making them harder to identify. According to Verywell Health, men are more likely to display aggressive emotions like anger and aggression when they're depressed, than women. Women tend to feel sadness and hopelessness. These changes in behavior may be the result of culture-based expectation that men should be strong and in control. This could mask the real underlying issue.
This is the reason why a lot of men are not diagnosed when they suffer from depression. It is crucial to be aware of how depression symptoms differ in men, and to recognize that it is normal for some men to experience these subtleties. This awareness can help men to seek treatment for their depression so that they can get better. If a man feels in immediate danger or has suicidal thoughts, he must call the emergency services.
2. Feelings of hopelessness
Some men be overwhelmed and depressed with their circumstances when struggling with depression. These feelings are a sign that it's time for help. It isn't easy for men to admit they are depressed. It's important that family members and friends join into the equation and encourage them to get help.
People who suffer from depression are more likely to drink alcohol and engage in risky behaviours as compared to those who don't suffer from the condition. These behaviors may be an attempt to hide their feelings or comply with "masculine norms" or they could be signs of depression.
Men may also exhibit symptoms of depression, such as anger and irritability. These emotions are often expressed in an aggressive manner. Road rage, for example is a common occurrence in people who are depressed. Men with depression can be also irrational toward their family members. These angry outbursts can be triggered by a range of triggers, such as stressors at work, personal relationships problems and health issues.
Many people are unable to recognize depression in their loved ones since the symptoms can be different between people. For instance, one person may be withdrawn or angry while another is constantly exhausted and anxious. Moreover, anxiety depression symptoms who are suffering from depression may mistake their feelings for other mental health issues, like bipolar disorder or anxiety or medical conditions, like chronic pain or an undiagnosed autoimmune disorder.
It's crucial to learn to recognize the signs of depression in men, and speak with them openly about their emotions. Men who suffer from depression are more likely to take their own lives than those who do not and it's essential to seek assistance. If they're hesitant to seek help due to the fact that they think that it's "unmanly," you should remind them that depression is a serious condition that isn't going to disappear by itself.
3. Feelings of inadequacy
Men may feel they are not able to help others, particularly when their depression is severe. They might feel hopeless and have a loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy, such as work or hobbies. These feelings can lead people to believe that they will never get better, and that it's pointless to look for solutions.
They also can be easily irritable and aggressive, which can have a significant impact on their relationships and their ability to work. This means that they're less likely to seek treatment for their issues than women are. In fact, the National Library of Medicine states that primary care physicians don't recognize depression in men more than 50 percent of the time. This is due to men focusing on physical symptoms of depression and aren't often comfortable discussing emotional symptoms.
The inability to acknowledge that they are struggling has led to the stigma surrounding mental health issues, particularly depression. It's essential for those who know someone suffering from depression to be aware of the signs of the disorder and encourage them to get treatment.
Despite the challenges there is a way for a man with depression to recover with the help of. There is relief using medication, therapy or a combination of both. Finding a therapist that understands men's mental health issues is the first step. BetterHelp is a service that connects you with licensed and accredited therapists who can offer depression treatment or other mental health services. Begin by taking the no-cost assessment.
Depression is a serious issue that is affecting millions of people around the world. The good news is that the right treatments can improve a person's mood which can improve the quality of life and enhanced emotional well-being.
4. Feelings Of Guilt
A common symptom of depression is feelings of guilt. People can feel guilty for a variety of reasons such as a loss of interest in pursuits such as anger, irritability and rage, and risk-taking behavior like reckless driving. These feelings aren't permanent or can last for weeks or months at one time. Men tend to be less likely to talk about their feelings, and they may not realize that their feelings are connected to depression. They may not seek treatment.
Anger could be a sign of depression. It can range from irritability to road anger. It can also be a response to a feeling of dissatisfaction or failure especially as a man approaches the middle of his life. A lot of times, people with depression will internalize these feelings and blame himself for his failures or losses, rather than acknowledge that they are linked to depression.
Men may also exhibit an escapist behavior, for example, drinking too much or playing video games for hours on end to avoid dealing with their depression. This can have serious consequences for your health. It's crucial to recognize these symptoms in the family member or a friend and take action.
It's also important to keep in mind that depression is a mental illness, and that it is unlikely to improve on its own. Although antidepressants can alleviate some symptoms, it is important to seek out an therapist and take self-help measures like exercise, yoga, and healthy eating to address the underlying issue. Men who are depressed might also find relief talking to a trusted family member, but it may be difficult for some men to talk about their feelings due to the fact that they are afraid that seeking therapy is "unmanly" or they fear being viewed as being a victim.
5. Anxiety
People with depression can also feel anxious or restless. This is often because they feel stuck in a specific situation and are powerless to make changes. People who experience this are less likely than women to seek assistance, because they do not know that this is an indication of depression and not weakness. They may be unable to express their feelings and may be unable to ignore their feelings. This makes it difficult for others to recognize something is wrong.
If left untreated, male depression can affect every aspect of life including relationships, work and personal safety. Men are four times more likely than women to take their own lives. It isn't clear what makes men more likely to commit suicide than women. They could be less likely to ask for help or they may be more driven.
It is crucial to know the differences in how women and men deal with depression. This is especially crucial when identifying symptoms in a family or friend member. Men are more likely to spot physical signs of depression, like fatigue and loss of appetite however, they are not in recognizing changes in their emotional state. Therefore, it is crucial that family and friends remain alert and keep an eye out for any changes in behavior that could be the result of depression.
Those who are concerned about the mental health of a person should discuss the issue with them in a candid and in a manner that is supportive. This can help reduce the stigma that surrounds mental health issues, and also encourage the person to get the help they require. If you are concerned about someone who is at risk of suicide or self-harm Contact the Beyond Blue suicide helpline on 1300 22 4636 or dial 911 in the event of an emergency.