How Does Depression Differ in Men?

When asked how you would describe a man, what would you say? What are the first words that come to mind? As a child, you were probably taught that men are tough. Real men don't cry. They're the leaders of the pack, the person in charge. The man of the house. Strong-willed and macho. Tall, dark, and handsome. Fighters and Heroes. Brave, resilient, and strong. They're a provider, a supporter, and always there for you when you need them.

Prince Charming always saves the day and rescues the princess, right? Wrong. Real men do cry and are allowed to cry. Life isn't a fairy tale. Princesses can save themselves, and sometimes, men need saving too. Depression doesn't only come after women. Men can struggle with depression too.

Here's how depression differs in men compared to women.

The Symptoms of Men's Depression

Depression is more common in females than males, but that doesn't mean men can't experience depression from time to time. Due to culture and society, men often feel like they can't show some of their emotions or express themselves. Due to this, the statistics may not accurately represent the number of men who actually experience depression.

Depression in men can lead to them feeling tired or unmotivated. This may cause them to lose interest in things they once enjoyed, like being around friends or family, working, or participating in one of their hobbies. While women struggling with depression may appear sad and have feelings of sadness, men struggling with depression may come across as aggressive, angry, or even irritable.

Depression is known to have an impact on your sleep, no matter your gender, but it tends to have a greater impact on men's sleep than women's. Some of the most common physical symptoms that men can experience are headaches, digestive issues, a tight chest, or a racing heart.

The symptoms that men portray when dealing with depression can be very hard for family, friends, coworkers, and even mental health professionals to detect. Men typically go for longer periods of time without proper diagnosis or treatment. Unfortunately, this can lead to even greater mental health issues. Men are more likely to attempt and commit suicide because of this.

Men Tend to Mask Their Depression

Men are more likely to try to mask the pain and other symptoms they may be feeling due to their depression. They will attempt to push away the pain and other negative feelings and thoughts by turning to other outlets. Some of those outlets they choose to turn to may be in line with their common interests like watching television, playing or watching sports, throwing themselves into their job, or working out more often.

The masking can also lead to risky behaviors as well. Driving recklessly, gambling, alcohol or substance abuse, and unprotected sex is common among men experiencing depression. The masking also makes it even more difficult for loved ones to recognize that depression may be affecting them.

Seeking Help

When seeking help for depression, men typically go to the doctor due to the physical symptoms they're experiencing over the emotional symptoms. No matter your gender, depression and other mental health issues should be taken seriously and treated as soon as they're diagnosed.

Don't let your depression get in the way of your happiness, relationships, career, or life in general. One of the strongest things you can do for yourself and your loved ones is to reach out for the necessary care and support.

If you or a loved one are suffering, reach out to me today to schedule a consultation for depression therapy.