Written by: Caitlin Werner, LMHC

This blog post mentions the topic of suicide. If you or someone you know needs support or help, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.

Depression affects at least 15 million adults in the United States of America. However, symptoms of depression are still not spoken about openly and are often viewed as a badge of shame. This applies particularly for men, with over 6 million men diagnosed with depression annually. One in ten men experience symptoms of depression and/or anxiety, but less than half will seek treatment for these symptoms. So why are men not having their depressive symptoms addressed?

Depression in men typically goes underdiagnosed when compared to women, studies have shown. For centuries in our society, men are typically taught from an early age to “tough it out” when it comes to expressing their emotions. These stigmas are deeply ingrained in many cultures and continue throughout life. Beginning in childhood, whether it be physical or emotional pain, boys are often taught that emotional expression and sensitivity is akin to more feministic traits, which in turn are viewed as negative. The more independent a man is perceived, the more respect they are given. This can lead to suppression of feelings, particularly feelings of sadness, anger, or worry. Often times, men are told asking for help in most aspects in life is a sign of weakness. These practices often result in minimization of clinically depressive or anxious symptoms, resulting in fewer interventions.

This likely contributes to more men completing suicide compared to women, as they may not voice their depressive or suicidal thoughts until it is too late. They may feel as though there is no hope for them, or that they have “failed” as a man to fix their own issues without help.

Some signs of depression in men include:

Fatigue or trouble sleeping
Anger, irritability, or increase in aggression
Sudden changes in mood or appetite
Little to no pleasure in normally pleasurable activities
Difficulty focusing in work or in daily activities
Feeling hopeless or unfulfilled
Somatic symptoms such as muscle aches, headaches, tension in their bodies
Engaging in more risky behavior

It has become increasingly more evident that the more men push aside feelings of depression, the more detrimental it becomes to their overall functioning, including relationships, occupation, and meeting their daily needs.

How do we change the narrative to show that men asking for help is not a bad thing? By simply being aware. Men are encouraged to ask themselves how they express their emotions. Do they suppress negative feelings? Do they feel as though they must act independently to solve their problems? Are they able to communicate how they are feeling without minimizing it or stating it’s “no big deal?” The answers to these questions may lead a man to realize they may struggle with emotional expression. Additionally, do these men experience any of the symptoms listed above? If so, it is time to ask a trusted support for help, whether it be a friend, family member, or professional therapist.

We all know someone who has experienced depression or anxiety. By offering them support, a listening ear, or helping them find a trusted therapeutic professional, we can help increase our awareness and treatment of depression in men. It is also important to break the cycle in boys at a young age by encouraging emotional expression no matter how young. This mentality can help us raise emotionally healthy men who can feel comfortable asking for help when they need it.

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of depression, especially if those symptoms are severe and are impacting your ability to manage daily activities, please reach out to your primary care doctor, psychiatrist, or other health professionals for mental health support or help finding support. Our therapists at Forensic Insight Group are here to support you and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to learn more about our therapy services.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings, please know you are not alone and reach out for help. Support is available 24/7 via phone or texting through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.

Citation:

Swetlitz, Nathan. Depression’s Problem with Men. AMA Journal of Ethics July, 2021.

https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/depressions-problem-men/2021-07

Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Men’s Mental Health.

https://adaa.org/find-help/by-demographics/mens-mental-health

Mayo Clinic, Male depression: Understanding the issues. December 21, 2022.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/male-depression/art-20046216

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Major Depression. July, 2023

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression