Male Depression and Why We Don't Talk About It?

Depression impacts millions of men of all ages and backgrounds, as well as those who care about them—spouses, partners, friends, and family. Of course, it’s normal for anyone to feel down from time to time. Fluctuations in mood are an ordinary reaction to losses, setbacks, and disappointments in life. Yet one of the best kept secrets in our society is Male Depression. The reason is, men view themselves as being physically and emotionally resilient. Indeed, that is the image of masculinity that is portrayed in societies, in the media, and celebrated in our histories and heroic stories. Any male response that does not fit this paradigm may be associated with weakness; a characteristic that many men seek to avoid like the plague.

It is this same rigid thinking that discourages men from seeking medical treatment for physical ailments. Thus, male depression like other medical issues is underreported and undertreated. Unfortunately left unaddressed male depression may change how you think and feel. It can interfere with your productivity at work or school, impact your relationships, sleep, diet, and your overall satisfaction with your life. Untreated male depression can lead to feelings of despair and hopelessness which has been known to lead to suicide. Therefore, we must not ignore the fact that depression is a danger to our society in general, and clear and present danger, specifically to men.

Unfortunately, depression in men often gets overlooked as many men find it difficult to talk about their feelings or admit to any proverbial chink in the physical or emotional armor. Talking about feelings is viewed as a feminine thing to do. Even when viewed from a clinical standpoint it is viewed from the position of being manipulated or labeled.

Researchers have found that men suffering from depression are four times more likely to take their own lives than women, so it is vital to seek help with depression before feelings of despair become feelings of suicide. Because men tend to not focus on their feelings and feelings cannot be readily observed, it is the physical symptoms that usually give the clues that a man may be depressed. Though observable many of these physical symptoms are often overlooked. The three most overlooked signs of depression in men are:

1. Physical pain. Sometimes depression in men shows up as physical symptoms—such as backache, frequent headaches, sleep problems, sexual dysfunction, or digestive discomfort—that doesn't respond to normal treatment.

2. Anger. This could range from irritability, sensitivity to criticism, loss of your sense of humor, road rage, and short tempers. Some men become abusive, controlling and even violent.

3. Reckless behavior. A man suffering from depression may exhibit escapist or risky behavior such as excessive aggression while playing dangerous sports, driving recklessly or at excessive speeds, or engaging in unsafe sex or excessive drinking. Drug use and abuse as a form of self-medication is common as is compulsive gambling or other related activities.

How to know if you’re depressed

If you identify with several of the following behaviors over extended periods of time (4 weeks or more) you may be suffering from depression.

1. You feel hopeless and helpless

2. You’ve lost interest in friends, activities, and things you used to enjoy

3. You’re much more irritable, short-tempered, or aggressive than usual

4. You’re self-medicating by consuming more alcohol, or drugs

5. You are engaging in risky or reckless behavior,

6. You feel needlessly restless and agitated

7. Your sleep, appetite, or weight have changed in either direction.

8. You can’t concentrate or your productivity at work has declined

9. You can’t control your negative thoughts

If you are struggling with any of these symptoms it is time to seek help for your benefit and for those you love. Talk honestly with a friend, loved one, or medical professional about what’s going on in your mind as well as your body. Taking necessary steps to treat and manage male depression is a badge of courage not an indictment of weakness.

The bible gives some salient advice about seeking counsel. It reads “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors, they are established”. Proverbs 15:22 KJV.

Next week will discover ways to approach men about this topic as well as proactive steps that can be taken to help successfully treat and or manage depression in Men.

If you have questions or concerns contact KNUSTART, LLC at KNUSTART.COM we are here to help.

KNUSTART, LLC is an online relationship and recovery organization that helps adults build and sustain lasting and healthy relationship with themselves, others, and their challenges.