Male depression is a serious medical condition, but many men try to ignore it or refuse treatment.
The issues behind male depression
Depression affects about 6 million men and 12 million women in America each year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. But the big difference in these numbers may not tell the whole story.
While it may seem as if men are less affected by depression, that assumption may not be entirely true. Researchers are trying to understand how and why male depression may be different from female depression, and any implications for treatment. Although the issues remain open to debate and uncertainty, they include the possibilities that:
- Male depression may often go undiagnosed
- Men and women may experience different depression symptoms
- Men with depression are more likely to die by suicide than are women with depression
- Men may need an emphasis on learning healthy coping skills
- Feelings of sadness that don't go away
- Losing interest and pleasure in your usual activities
- Crying for no apparent reason
- Excessive anxiety, agitation or worry-
- Changes in your energy levels, eating or sleeping patterns
- Feeling worthless or hopeless
- Suicidal thoughts
Most people who experience depression make a full recovery - the first step is seeking help. Just talking about your feelings with a person you trust can be the first step towards recovery. You may want to contact your Doctor or local
Primary Health Organisation.
There are a range of treatments for depression which could include:
- Counselling
- Therapy
- Antidepressant medication
Depression affects all ages, races and economic groups and both men and women. It is thought that men experience depression just as often as women, but they are less likely to ask for help.
No comments:
Post a Comment