The Reasons You Shouldn't Think About Improving Your Depression Symptoms For Men
Depression Symptoms For Men Men can experience depression differently from women. Men should be aware of warning signs and symptoms of depression. Men are often embarrassed to seek help. Men might be scared of losing their masculinity, or that mental illness could impact their career or relationships. 1. Feelings of despair or hopelessness While the discussion around mental health has been more inclusive and open in recent years, many men still struggle to express their feelings within an environment that is rooted in the traditional beliefs of males. This can make it difficult for them to recognize the symptoms of depression, which is influenced by both social factors and male biology. Men who don't seek treatment could have distorted lives and even increased suicide risk. Changes in mood are a normal reaction to losses and setbacks, but depression is distinct from simply feeling down. It is persistent and can affect a man’s ability to sleep and work. It can cause a lack in interest in activities or escapist behaviors like playing videogames for hours at a time. Depression can manifest as physical symptoms too and can cause digestive problems, pains and aches, and problems with the immune system. Often these symptoms are not recognized and not treated and can lead to more serious problems later on such as substance abuse, PTSD, or chronic back pain and headaches. Men may be reluctant to admit they're depressed, believing that it's a sign of weakness or an inability to “man up. However, depression is treatable, and will only worsen if it is not treated. 2. Feelings of devalued Men typically feel a sense inadequacy when they're feeling depressed. They may believe they are worthless as individuals or in their relationships, jobs and even in their hobbies. This is common among those who suffer from depression, but it can be more pronounced in men due to gender-specific social rules that govern how they are supposed to act and express their emotions. It is crucial for men to recognize feelings of inadequacy as a sign of depression and seek treatment. A therapist can teach clients to look at negative thoughts and beliefs, and find healthier and more balanced perspectives. This can help alleviate depression-related symptoms such as feeling devalued or losing interest in work, hobbies and even family. In addition to feelings of inadequacy and a sense of desperation, men may also experience changes in appetite and sleep, irritability, or lack of energy. These symptoms can be different in severity according to the individual. Some men might be unable to perform at school or work due to these difficulties. Many men have a difficult time reaching out for assistance when they're depressed. They may not want to discuss their depressive symptoms with friends or family, or they might think that it's unmanly to express emotions. But it's crucial for men to understand that depression is an extremely serious mental health issue that can affect all aspects of their lives and put them at risk of taking their own life. The good news is that depression is treatable and more men — including celebrities and politicians are going public about their battle with depression. 3. Feelings of anger or frustration People with depression tend to be irritable and short tempered. This can result in road rage or violence. Generally, this is an indication of severe emotional distress that needs to be addressed with professional help. Men may have a hard time admitting that they are suffering from depression. Some men might not want to admit they suffer from depression. Untreated depression can lead to other medical issues. For instance, it could cause or worsen headaches, digestive issues fatigue, irritability, fatigue and long-term pain. It can also increase the chance of a substance abuse problem or PTSD. There are many effective treatments available for men with depression. These include therapy, medication and other forms of mental health support like exercising and yoga, healthy eating and meditation. Certain patients may benefit from other forms of treatment, such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Finding help is the best treatment for depression and improve overall health. For men who are at risk of suicide, a crisis hotline is available to call. If you know someone who is struggling, call him and offer to listen. You could save lives. If men don't seek treatment, they could be a burden for those around them, and could even injure themselves or others. 4. Feelings of despair or despair While depression can bring on various symptoms, the particular experiences of each person will be different for each person. While one man may feel depressed or empty, while another may experience agitation and aggression. Hormones may play a role in these differences, as well. It can be difficult for men to recognize their depression due to the desire to be accepted with the social norms and perception that mental health issues aren't “manly.” Men might feel guilty about asking for assistance, or believe that they can manage the issue on their own. This can delay treatment. Depression can cause problems in every aspect of life, including relationships, health, and your personal security. Untreated depression can result in various negative outcomes including suicide. It is crucial that everyone, men as well, are aware of the signs and symptoms of depression so that they can seek treatment when necessary. A doctor can identify depression in a patient and recommend effective treatment options that include medications. It is essential to keep in mind that antidepressant medications are only tools to combat depression. They do not treat its underlying cause. Healthy lifestyles and talk therapy can also be helpful in treating depression. Many people suffering from depression will benefit from a combination treatment and medication. Some antidepressants can cause erectile dysfunction, so you should speak to your doctor if you have any problems in this area. 5. Feelings of anger or frustration Often, men don't recognize depression because they think it isn't “manly” to feel negative emotions. They may also believe that they are “strong” and can deal with issues on their own. These men are less likely than other men to seek help, or to admit they are depressed. This is true even when the symptoms are severe and interfere with their life. Untreated depression can have severe consequences for men's careers and relationships, and can lead to self-injury and abuse of substances. While some people have classic depression symptoms , such as feeling despondent and a loss of enjoyment or interest in everyday activities, weight loss and fatigue and sleep issues Some suffer from what's described as “stealth” symptoms that include feelings of anger or irritability despite being depressed. These “stealth symptoms” are usually caused by other conditions, like an underlying disorder, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, or drug or alcohol abuse, or a side-effect of medication. It's important for men to talk to their friends, family members, and healthcare professionals about how they're experiencing. Honesty combined with compassion can help men recognize that they have a problem and act to get treatment. 6. Feelings of despair, or despair Men who suffer from depression usually begin to notice signs that manifest in the body, like digestive problems, headaches or fatigue. They might also be angry or easily angered. They might become more introverted or avoid social activities that they previously enjoyed. In some cases, those with depression might even try to get over their emotions by using drugs or alcohol as a means of coping. It is also normal for men to experience depression due to a physical trauma. This could be a car crash, military service or physical injury. This is especially relevant for male veterans. Many men don't seek treatment for depression, assuming that it's “unmanly” and that the symptoms will disappear by themselves. In some cases, it takes a spouse or other family member to be able to spot the signs and encourage them to seek out an ophthalmologist. If you suspect that someone you know is depressed Don't wait for them to reach out to you. You can help them realize that it's not their fault, and that they are entitled to support from loved ones. You can help them consult with a physician and consider treatments that will help them get back on track, including self-help strategies and medication, as well as other forms of brain stimulation therapies, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). In some cases these techniques are more effective in cases of severe depression than antidepressant drugs all on their own.