Men and Depression: Breaking Down the Signs and Stigma

Depression doesn’t seek out one gender over another. It can impact anyone at just about any age, but there’s no question that men and women experience some differences when it comes to depression.

Unfortunately, there continues to be a stigma attached to men’s mental health. 

As a result, mental health symptoms can manifest themselves differently in men and women, and it’s important to know what signs to look for and what they might mean. 

With that in mind, let’s foster a better understanding of mental health for men, starting with recognizing the signs of depression. 

Shared Symptoms

Understanding the common signs that regularly impact anyone with depression is a great way to develop a better understanding of the condition. 

The most common sign of depression is a deep sense of sadness that lasts for at least two weeks. Depression is more than just sadness, of course, but it’s likely to be the symptom you notice first. 

In addition to feeling sad, you might start to feel both hopeless and helpless, like things will never get better. Depression can cause you to isolate and withdraw from the things and people you love. It can also cause changes to your sleeping and eating habits.

Physical Symptoms

Most people understand that depression is a mental health condition, but it can certainly manifest itself through physical symptoms as well. Women can experience physical issues too; however, they might be more prominent in men who are trying to “ignore” other red flags about their mental health. 

Men with depression can experience headaches, muscle aches and pains, nausea, digestive issues, and more. If there’s a silver lining to dealing with physical symptoms of depression, it’s that men are often more likely to seek help for physical issues than mental ones. If depression is causing physical symptoms, it could be exactly what’s needed for you to start prioritizing your mental well-being.

Negative Behaviors

One of the more harmful ways men tend to exhibit depression symptoms is through their behaviors. With the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, it’s not uncommon for them to cope in negative ways, including acting out in unhealthy and potentially dangerous manners. 

Some men turn to alcohol or drugs to “help” with depression. While those things might work to numb your thoughts for a while, it’s not a sustainable practice and will end up doing more harm than good. 

Others engage in risky behaviors, like reckless driving or unnecessary thrill-seeking.

Additionally, it’s not uncommon for men dealing with depression to act out with aggression, anger, and even violence. This reality can impact nearly every area of your life, from your career to your relationships. 

What Can You Do?

Depression can impact everyone differently. Some are able to function with it at a better level than others, depending on its severity. 

The worst thing you can do when you’re dealing with the symptoms of depression is to try to ignore them; don’t let a societal stigma get in the way of reaching out for the help you deserve.

Depression is often a very manageable condition, but it’s not one you have to tackle on your own. Therapy is a great way to better understand your depression; digging into the underlying causes can give you a starting point on your healing journey. Therapy will also help you learn healthy, effective techniques for symptom management. 

If you’re dealing with any of the signs of depression here or you’re concerned about your mental health, don’t hesitate to contact our office today to set up an appointment.