Many people think of depression as a woman’s problem—and for the most part that’s true. Depression tends to affect twice as many women as men.
What often gets overlooked: Depression takes a huge toll on men as well, and an increasing body of research shows that it can have a wide variety of devastating consequences for them.
That’s why it’s vital to know how and why depression affects men…
Depression often goes undiagnosed and untreated in men. That’s because men, in general, are less likely than women to admit that they feel depressed and will often downplay their emotions.
They also are less apt to seek help, thinking they can “tough it out.” Many men dislike sharing their feelings and may view seeking treatment for depression as being unmanly or weak.
Men also are less likely than women to replace the friendships that they lose throughout the years, which contributes to loneliness—a key risk factor for depression and suicide. Research shows that older men are more likely than any other demographic group to commit suicide. The rate of male suicides for those age 65 and older was 5.4 times greater than that of female suicides in the same age group.
Research has shown that depression is an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease. A 2011 study published in the journal Psychophysiology found that people who had depression had slower heart rate recovery after exercise, a finding that may explain the link.
In addition, depression can cause men to suppress their feelings and become more aggressive and irritable, which can wreak havoc on relationships with a spouse, children and colleagues. And it can make it difficult to function at work.
Some sadness in life is normal. After all, life is filled with ups and downs. But pinpointing a depression diagnosis based solely on mood can be difficult. Diagnosing depression involves a variety of symptoms.
What isn’t normal: When you no longer take pleasure in activities you once enjoyed. It is especially problematic if the loss of enjoyment is accompanied by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and helplessness.
Changes in sleep habits—such as difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep or oversleeping—are another major sign of depression, as are a sharp drop in energy levels and difficulty focusing and concentrating.
Unlike women, who tend to express their feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, men often try to hide their depression with short-term “fixes” and risky behavior such as extramarital sex and drug and alcohol abuse. Additionally, depressed men may become obsessed with hobbies such as golf or work very long hours.
Even though it can be hard for men to ask for help, getting treated for depression is critical.
The first step toward treatment is acknowledging the problem. The next step is to have an honest conversation with your primary care physician, who may treat you or refer you to a mental health professional. Possible treatments for depression include…
Tell your doctor if you take any medications or supplements other than the antidepressant, since antidepressants can interact with both. Be aware that depression may worsen in the first weeks after starting or changing the dose of an antidepressant. Report any severe symptoms, including thoughts of suicide, to your doctor. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, immediately call the American Association of Suicidology hotline at 800-273-TALK (8255) .
Helping a depressed man: A concerned wife, partner or loved one should first urge the individual to seek professional help if he has not done so already. Once the diagnosis has been made, a partner can help by stressing that depression is nothing to be ashamed of, listening to concerns and being patient.
