Even though sadness is typically the primary symptom of depression in many people, men may be more likely than women to suffer wrath, act violently, and abuse pharmaceuticals.
Depression in men
It's possible for men with depression to go unnoticed.
Depression in men is common. According to the American Psychological Association, 30.6% of American males experience a depressive episode at some point in their lives, and 9% of American men experience despair or anxiety on any given day.
Understanding how depression symptoms may differ between men and women is crucial. It can aid in bringing up the topic of depression among both people and those who are close to them.
Male and female depression symptoms
Some depressive symptoms are the same in both sexes. These include feelings of helplessness, sadness, melancholy, depression, guilt, or emptiness. Other typical signs include:
- Unable to concentrate
- Getting too little or too much sleep, and losing delight in enjoyable activities
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Irritated or exhausted
To be clear, not everyone who has depression will experience all of the aforementioned symptoms.
Some depressive symptoms, which may be influenced by social, genetic, hormonal, or physiological factors, are more common in males than in women.
Male behavioural signs of depression
Men and women can experience depression in different ways behaviorally.
Males are more likely than females to take risks and experience outbursts of wrath. Additionally, men are more commonly than women linked to depression by alcohol and drug use.
Men who are depressed may exhibit the following behavioural modifications:
- Avoiding interactions with family or friends
- Working nonstop and not taking enough breaks
- Consuming more alcohol or drugs, participating in risky behaviour like gambling or hazardous sex, or struggling to keep up with family or work obligations
- Being more aggressive or dominating in relationships
- Suicide attempt
One idea holds that these behavioural modifications result from men trying to conceal their depression while adhering to "masculine norms." Men may lash out or engage in damaging behaviours in an effort to mask their desperation.
Men's emotional indicators of depression
Frustration and irritability might be early signs of depression in males.
Some guys might find it easier to discuss physical problems than mood fluctuations. However, there is a close link between the mind and body. It is vital to see a doctor, even if a problem seems minor.
Depression causes low moods and has an emotional effect on both men and women.
Depressed women frequently communicate their feelings, although some men can feel less comfortable doing so.
Symptoms of depression on the body
Depression has major physical symptoms in addition to being a mental health disorder. Men that are depressed might go through:
- Headaches
- Discomfort in the back, limbs, or joints of the chest
- Digestion issues
- Tiredness
Too much or too little eating too much or too little feeling upset or restless accidental weight loss
Why does male depression sometimes go undiagnosed?
There is still significant cultural and societal stigma associated with depression, especially among men, despite the fact that conversations about mental health appear to be growing in popularity and compassion.
Men are typically socialised by society to suppress their emotions, despite the fact that this is unhealthy. Many men might be putting their emotional, physical, and mental health at risk in an effort to uphold these social ideals.
Additionally, many men lack the knowledge necessary to recognise the less common depression symptoms that they are more likely than others to suffer.
Because they never notice the symptoms, some men with depression never seek treatment. On the other side, some men who do notice the indications may find it difficult to talk about their experience because they worry about what other people would think.
Because of this, many men who exhibit signs of depression start working long hours or otherwise filling their time to keep occupied rather than dealing with the depression itself.
It is possible to save lives by diagnosing depression and getting therapy. Men have a high rate of suicide, especially those who have been or are serving in the military. Men commit suicide at a rate that is three to four times higher than that of women.
We can assist guys with depression in recognising the indications by keeping the dialogue open. Men with depression can lead the fullest lives possible by receiving therapy.
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