Men get Moody; Depression can sink him!

By Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer

January 15, 2023 – Depression.  It’s a word that many people are familiar with but its meaning is often diminished or the illness mischaracterized.  Depression isn’t just feeling sad or lethargic though those are often symptoms.

“Depression is a common but serious mood disorder that may cause severe symptoms.  Depression affects the ability to feel, think, and handle daily activities.”  The US National Institute of Mental Health explains.  For men especially this disorder can go undiagnosed leading to severe consequences.

An unwillingness to talk about and seek treatment for depressive feelings is one reason for this.  In addition depression may sometimes present in men in ways we might not expect such as anger; aggression or even a racing heart, tightening chest, ongoing headaches, or digestive issues.

Depending on the openness of the society they were raised in, some men may try to self-medicate with drugs, sex or alcohol rather than seek mental help; many may not even realize they are depressed or know how to talk about what they are feeling.

If you or a family member has been feeling off lately there are certain things you should look for.  NIMH says symptoms are extensive and can include:

• Anger, irritability, or aggressiveness
• Feeling anxious, restless, or “on the edge”
• Loss of interest in work, family, or once-pleasurable activities
• Problems with sexual desire and performance
• Feeling sad, “empty,” flat, or hopeless
• Not being able to concentrate or remember details
• Feeling very tired, not being able to sleep, or sleeping too much
• Overeating or not wanting to eat at all
• Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempt

Individuals can have one depressive episode or related ones.

A combination of factors may cause an episode including illness, stress and genetics.  Thankfully there are medical treatments that can help.

Depression is a clinical illness with medical treatments that can help regulate your mood.  Those can only be prescribed by professionals, which means paying attention to your symptoms and being willing to talk about them.

The first step to getting help is telling someone trustworthy about how you are feeling, whether that is your wife; mother; best friend or doctor.

The second step is seeking a professional opinion, do not try to self-diagnose or self-medicate.  Involve a trained professional in your journey.

Parents, parents and friends should try not to dismiss the feelings of the men old and young in their lives.  It is important to take them seriously as men may find it harder to open up after being shot down.  In addition the NIMH says while woman are more likely to act on suicidal ideations while depressed men are more likely to succeed.

If you are diagnosed as depressed, keep up with your medication and therapy sessions should they be prescribed.

Involve your loved ones and allow them to help you along your journey.  Asking for help is normal and it is important to remember, for men especially, depression is nothing to be ashamed of, it is a very common mental health illness that affects around 280 million people globally and help is readily available.