Depression in Men

• Work stress: especially role ambiguity, night shifts, holding down more than one job.
• Relationship breakdown: Divorced men are most likely to commit suicide.
• Fatherhood: Men also experience depression after the birth of a baby.
• Unemployment: the role of men can dramatically shift from that of breadwinner to dependent. This can similarly affect retired men.
• Bereavement: which can lead to diversions such as work and an escalation of risky activities, drinking, anger and frustration.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Men

There are a number of potential markers to indicate that a man may be depressed. Men are more likely to externalise their depression and may fixate on activities like work. They are prone to turn to alcohol or drugs, which can lead to dangerous or risky activities. Relationships start to suffer as men prefer to ignore questions about their behavior or mental state. As the partner becomes more concerned, the situation becomes more tense and men begin to withdraw more and more.

Sexual drive in depressed men tends to decrease although in some cases sexual activity increases in an attempt to feel better. Some of the symptoms of depression will be exactly the same as women, but the nature of depressive symptoms in men does differ. For example:

• Feeling down, worthless, and tired.
• Easily irritated, frustrated and wanting to hit out.
• Loss of weight.
• Lack of interest in friends, family, relationships.
• Increase in risky activities like affairs, fast driving.
• Misuse of alcohol and/or drugs.
• Headaches, digestive problems.

Treatment Options

Most people with depression respond positively to treatment, which may be antidepressant medication, psychological therapies or a combination of the two. Remember that some physical conditions can cause depression, so get checked out.

Jerry Kennard is a psychologist & co-founder of www.embarrassments.co.uk