Depression in men often gets unnoticed compared to women. They show different signs that aren't usually associated with being depressed. It's important to understand that depression is a common mental illness that needs treatment. If left untreated, it can only get worse. An early intervention is very important, as it can help save lives. In this article, you'll learn more about some of the commonly missed signs of depression in men.
Most men are less likely to seek help when they're depressed. Those who do visit a health care provider might only complain about the following signs - being exhausted, feeling 'stressed out' and not having enough patience. This can easily get them into arguments at work or at home. One of their coping strategies is to try getting their minds off these signs. Their 'escape response' is to divert their attention to spending more time at work and developing bad habits, such as excessive drinking, smoking, reckless driving and even drug abuse.
Unlike most women with depressive disorder who show signs of sadness, most of the male adults who are depressed generally appear angry and irritable. These signs can particularly be obvious in those who aren't normally grumpy.
There are people would show signs of having difficulties falling and staying asleep. Because of this, they won't be able to have the refreshing sleep that they need.
Struggling with depressive symptoms can sometimes make it hard for you to do small constructive things to help yourself. Most people who are struggling with depressive symptoms have low levels of energy and poor concentration. They feel that they no longer have the capacity to perform their usual day-to-day tasks. This can often lead to feelings of worthlessness and guilt. These signs are fairly common among some women with depressive disorder too.
Some men who are depressed will display physical signs, such as an upset stomach, headache, erectile dysfunction and back pains. A lot of men don't consider these as signs with having a mental health problem. They only tend to focus on having physical health problems, instead of having it linked to a mental illness.
"Depression can sometimes manifest in different ways in different people."
Depressive symptoms can sometimes seem overwhelming. Some men go through changes in their personalities. Some of the signs include engaging in extramarital affairs, getting into gambling, and even being abusive or physically violent.
One of the missed signs of depression in men is a sudden loss of interest in things that they have previously enjoyed doing. The usual excitement just isn't there anymore. In worst cases, some men would feel like there's no longer any reason for living. This can lead to thoughts of harming oneself or even taking one's own life. Statistics show that men are four times more likely to commit suicide than women. Do you have thoughts of committing suicide? Do you think about harming yourself in any way? If your answer to these questions is 'yes', then it's important for you to seek help immediately.
"The reasons for suffering in silence are often linked to societal expectations of how a man should feel and behave."
If you think that you could be struggling with a mental illness, then it's important that you do something about it. The first important step towards your recovery is to acknowledge what you're experiencing. Despite the fact that depression is a common disorder, there's still a stigma around it in our society today. This can be one of the reasons why most men don't want to talk about being depressed. Some people consider it as a sign of weakness. Yet it's important to understand that it's not. In fact, talking about what you're going through could mean that you're strong enough to fight it.
Understand that you don't have to go through it alone. It can be a good idea to visit a doctor. Only a medical professional can give you a medical diagnosis and a medical advice as to the right type of treatment that you need. It can also be helpful to seek therapy. You'll realize that talking to a therapist can help you understand better what you're going through. Some people seek help from their family, friends and colleagues. It can sometimes be just as helpful as seeking help from a medical professional.
If you're currently receiving treatments, it's important to know that there are also a lot of things you can do to help speed up your recovery. One of the most helpful things you can do is to shift to a healthier lifestyle - have a healthy diet, be more active, manage your stress levels, and get the proper amount of sleep you need.
Depression in Men: Why It's Hard to Recognize and What Helps
"Depression is not a sign of emotional weakness or failing of masculinity."
Keep in mind that healing can take time. What's important is for you to continue finding ways how you can help yourself get better. Believe, take action and YOU WILL overcome depression.