Common Symptoms Of Depression In Men
The article is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.
Men have typically been conditioned by society to not talk about their feelings, which often leaves them struggling in silence when experiencing mental health concerns. Although depression is the most common mental illness faced by men, it often goes undiagnosed and untreated. Further, because the symptoms of depression can vary between sexes, spotting depression may be more difficult without enough awareness of the disorder.
Given that men are four times more likely to commit suicide than women, it’s crucial for them to have access to the support they need. Keep reading to learn more about the most common symptoms of depression in men and available options for treatment.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a serious mood disorder that can affect how someone feels, thinks, and behaves. Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities and a persistent low mood are the two primary symptoms of this condition, but they aren’t the only ones.
Depression typically makes daily functioning difficult, and men may struggle to follow through with their usual routines and habits, such as going to work and grooming themselves. However, every man is unique, meaning each of their experiences with depression can look different.
Depression Symptoms In Men
Beyond a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities and a persistent low mood, other symptoms of depression commonly experienced by men include:
Irritability or anger: While women usually become sad and stressed when they’re depressed, men tend to experience irritability and anger. They may be more aggressive and hostile than usual, regularly picking fights or escalating situations instead of trying to resolve them with peaceful solutions. Angry outbursts may become commonplace, and their patience may be thinner than ever, leading them to impulsively lash out at any sign of criticism or inconvenience.
Loss of interest in sex: A man’s sex life can be negatively affected by depression, causing them to lose interest in sex completely or hindering their ability to perform. Depression can lead to low self-esteem and increase a man’s insecurities, making it even more challenging to enjoy sex.
Social withdrawal: Depression can cause even the most outgoing individual to withdraw from their loved ones. Whether they feel like a burden or simply don’t have the energy to engage with their friends and family, social isolation can create feelings of loneliness and exacerbate the negative thoughts that accompany depression. When men do work up the energy to be around the people they love, they may be irritable and seem mentally checked out from conversations.
Impaired concentration: Men with depression often report having difficulty concentrating, whether at work, out with friends, or at home. They may no longer see a point in putting energy into certain tasks, leading them to neglect their responsibilities. On top of not being able to focus, men may also have a hard time remembering things and making wise decisions.
Substance misuse: Men may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with depression. While they may feel temporary relief, these harmful habits usually end up worsening their mental health over time. Some men may even develop substance use disorders, becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol on top of their depression.
Thoughts of suicide: Suicidal ideations or attempts can be common among men living with depression. They may say that they no longer want to live or sound hopeless in the way they talk. Some men might speak of death frequently or express feeling like a burden to the people in their lives. Suicide is always an emergency and should be treated as such.
How Is Depression Treated?
Therapy and medication, or a combination of the two, are the frontline treatments for depressive disorders. Speaking with a mental health professional, such as a therapist, can be a helpful first step toward healing. A therapist can assess the severity of a man’s symptoms, evaluate the root cause of the condition, and offer a treatment plan that takes their unique needs and preferences into account. Many BetterHelp therapists offer integrative therapy online for conditions like depression, which relies on different approaches to meet the client’s needs.
Men Need Support, Too
It’s crucial for men to understand that reaching out for help for mental health concerns like depression is not a sign of weakness but of strength. By being aware of the symptoms of depression, society can help break the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and promote healing and recovery—whether for themselves or a loved one. Seeking support and treatment can be a positive first step toward wellness and a more fulfilling life.