Western society generally labels depression as a problem that primarily impacts women. Research has shown that there are millions of men in the United States who also suffer from severe clinical depression.
Due to the social stigma attached to men with depression, it is difficult to determine whether or not the numbers for men with depression are truly accurate. It is possible that there are several thousand more cases of male depression that go unreported every year.
Typical male symptoms include:
- Extreme pessimism
- Feeling worthless
- Decreased Sex Drive
- Difficulty focusing or concentrating
- Sleeping too much or being unable to sleep
- Heightened Irritability
- Quiet and sullen moodiness
- Lack of interest in hobbies
- Persistent irritating health problems
- headaches
- stomach problems
The Differences Between Depression in Men and Women
The physical symptoms of depression are very similar with each gender. The main differences between men and women who suffer from the disorder is the way they react to the symptoms. Women tend to have more social freedom to express their discomfort, while men tend to repress their symptoms until they are too severe to ignore.
Men also experience more dramatic self-esteem issues and personal guilt about their depression. Many people still believe that depression is a sign of weakness, which is why women are more susceptible than men. Even though there is no real connection between willpower and clinical depression, these societal myths can be damaging for men who suffer from the disorder.
Male Coping Strategies
Many men attempt to treat their depression without seeking help from medical professionals. One of the most typical coping strategies that men turn to is substance abuse. Over time, however, this form of self medication can compound the problems and make the depression more severe.
Some men choose to throw themselves into their work so that they are never at home and never have to be alone with their feelings. This strategy also tends to backfire as their depression begins to impact their ability to be productive on the job.
Problems with Untreated Depression
Left untreated, depression in men can become dangerous. The possibility of a man committing suicide is quadruple that of a woman’s possibility. Male suicide attempts are also more violent, which means they are more likely to succeed.
Untreated depression in men can also have a more serious financial impact because the majority of men are the main breadwinners in their families. If depression is allowed to become so severe that it interrupts a man’s ability to work, the loss of his paycheck and benefits can devastate his family.
Men who suffer from untreated depression also tend to have relationship problems that can easily lead to divorce or separation.
Recognizing Symptoms
The symptoms of depression in men are similar to the symptoms in women. Men who suffer from depression tend to withdraw from close friends and family to avoid exhibiting recognizable symptoms. This tendency can cause male depression symptoms to appear more subtle. Depression is highly treatable, especially if diagnosed early.
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