Depression is a mental health condition that we now know can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or skin colour. However, research has shown that men are less likely to seek help for depression and are at a higher risk of suicide. In this article, we'll explore the latest statistics on depression in men, its causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment.
Recent statistics on depression according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) confirm that over 6 million men in the United States alone have been diagnosed with depression and other mental health conditions. However, men are less likely to be diagnosed with depression than women, and they are more likely to die by suicide. In fact, suicide is the seventh leading cause of death among men in the US and some Asia countries like India and Japan, and men have a higher chance of committing suicide, up to four times more than women.
What are the causes of Depression in Men?
Over the years it has been observed that a variety of factors can cause depression, including genetics, brain chemistry, life events, and environmental factors. In men, depression may also be triggered by the following:
Social and cultural expectations of masculinity, such as the pressure to be tough and self-reliant.
Relationship problems, including marital or family conflict.
Job stress, unemployment, or financial problems.
Chronic medical conditions, such as obesity, heart disease, hypertension, or cancer.
Symptoms of Depression in Men
Symptoms of depression in men can vary from person to person but may include the following:
Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness.
Sudden loss of interest in hobbies or activities.
Prolonged fatigue or loss of energy.
Difficulty in sleeping or sleeping too much.
Hostility.
Anger issue surfaces or are aggravated, and highly irritable.
Inability to fully concentrate or make decisions.
Suicide contemplations.
Prevention of Depression in Men.
While depression cannot always be prevented, there are some steps men can take to reduce their risk, such as:
Seeking treatment for mental health conditions such as anxiety or substance abuse.
Engaging in regular exercise and physical activity.
Following and practising a healthy diet lifestyle as well as getting enough sleep.
Building strong social support networks.
Practising techniques that have been proven to reduce such as deep breathing and meditation.
Treatment of Depression in Men.
Depression in men can be effectively treated with a variety of approaches, including:
Psychotherapy: Talk therapy can help men identify and address negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to depression.
Medication: Medical breakthroughs have provided antidepressant medications which regulate chemical reactions and actions in the brain to alleviate symptoms of depression.
Natural (Alternative) treatments: Some men may benefit from alternative treatments such as acupuncture, herbal supplements, massage therapy, and other supervised naturally relaxing therapies like going on a retreat, staycation, or walking in the woods and waterfronts.
Healthful lifestyle changes: This is done by incorporating healthy habits such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and many stress reduction techniques that can also help reduce symptoms of depression.
With many cases going undiagnosed, we know that depression is a common and treatable condition that affects millions of men worldwide. While men may be less likely to seek help for depression, it's important to remember that seeking treatment is a sign of strength, and never to be thought of as a weakness. By understanding the various causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options of depression in men, together we can work to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and improve the quality of life for men struggling with depression. It may not be popular to speak up but do. We will listen.