If you know how to identify the symptoms of depression in men then you would know that depression strikes millions of people each year. It is not a discriminating disorder as men and women across a large age range all suffer from depression. Traditionally, men have been molded to keep their emotions in check. This makes it difficult to diagnose and treat depression as symptoms of depression in men can be misleading at times.
Knowing the symptoms of depression in men can help people to come to terms with accepting that they have depression. Depression is not an embarrassing disorder to have. It is a real and dangerous condition, but one which can be managed and treated.
Symptoms of Depression in Men
Men have been stereotyped to be “stronger” and rarely show emotion such as sadness or despair. This leads men with depression to bottle up their feelings. Symptoms of depression in men show up in different ways as a result of this. Below is a list of common symptoms of depression in men.
- Guilt, especially over helplessness
- Insomnia
- Aggressive Behavior
- Irritability
- Lethargy
- Lower sex drive
- Chronic pain, headaches
- Substance abuse
- Unwillingness to talk about problems
These symptoms of depression in men are exhibited because they do not express their feelings in the usual ways such as crying or having emotional outbursts. The belief that they should be in control makes them feel angry, hurt or guilty when they are unable to do so otherwise.
Men can then instead lash out at their friends and family. Irritability at the slightest action can also be one of the symptoms of depression in men. This in turn can lead men to look for solace in alcohol or drugs as a means of escape.
The difficulty of recognizing symptoms of depression in men is that society chalks this up to acting “just like a guy.” While this may be true at times, actions like these can become unhealthy if continued over time. When these symptoms of depression in men become more frequent and cause problems with relationships, career and themselves, it may be time to seek professional help.
Dealing with Symptoms of Depression in Men
Getting treatment for men that have depression can prove to be difficult as it is common for men to want to deal with the problem themselves. Seeking help is the best thing you can do.
Depression is nothing to be ashamed about, and it makes you a better man to want to get better for yourself and for those you love. Learn and know these symptoms of depression in men.