Depression is not giving birth; it affects both men and women; it does not distinguish between genders. Fortunately, unlike some other medical conditions, this disorder can be easily treated when the warning signs are detected at an early stage and proper treatment is taken.
The problem, depression symptoms in men often go unrecognized or remain secret the fact that some men tend to show that they are tough; as if saying they are depressed is a sign of weakness. However, the fact remains both men and women are affected by depressive disorders. The solution is to know to recognize the signs earliest possible.
Although women are more than two-and-a-half times more likely to suffer from depression than men do, statistics shows that symptoms of anxiety and despair are higher in men during the age of 40s and 50s. Medical scientists believe that these physiological changes can be the results of hormonal imbalance related to andropause, the ‘male menopause’.
Another problem is that men tend to ignore the warning signs of depressive disorder, which aggravates the condition. Male depression is a very serious mental condition that should not be taken lightly. It is very important to seek treatment if you notice warning signs of depression in men as well as in children and women.
In general, here are the most common depression symptoms in men:
Poor concentration
Fatigue or low energy
Unreasonable and persistent sadness
Constant anxiety for no real reason
Agitation which can be associated with anger
No or lack of desire for social activities
Feeling of dread and hopelessness
Exaggerated self-pity or self–indulgent manner
Changes in appetite associated weight loss/gain
Lack of or no interest in sexual activities
Negligence in personal care, such as not shaving for days
Sleep problems, sleeplessness or excessive sleep
Absence or poor performance at work
Become talkative – constant complain about insignificant matters
Reckless or irresponsible behavior
Overuse or addiction to passive entertainments: TV, Internet…
Nervousness or unreasonable fear of failure
low self-esteem or/and lack of confidence
Constant feeling of restlessness
Resisting treatment in any form
Unreasonable anger or aggression
Unreasonable feelings of guilt and shame
Suicidal thoughts (report all suicidal signs to medical professional ASAP).
How to Deal with Depression Symptoms in Men?
These days, there are many methods of male depression treatment; psychotherapy is one of them. It can be used to improve the mental health of the patient, thus help him see life in a positive side. Herbal remedies and alternative therapies such as massages, and meditation can also be used to effective treat any type of depression. Along with these alternatives, a healthy diet rich in omega-3 is highly recommended.
The traditional Chinese medicine known as acupuncture is sometime used to treat male depression symptoms. Acupuncture is an alternative therapy believed to help provide some relief and make depressed people feel more relaxed. But there is no real medical proof for that. Anti-depressant medications are the most common recommended by physicians. But it would better to first try natural and safer alternatives before consider taking drugs.
Be aware that depression symptoms in men take times to be treated. The reason is because not only the manifestations are more severe but the disorder can be accompanied with other medical problems such as headaches and other prolonged illnesses. Be patient as you are being treated. You can get rid of the sadness and frustration by having recourse to counseling and prayer therapy. It also said positive affirmations are helpful in reducing male depression symptoms.
But if in spite of all efforts, you or the patient experiences suicidal thoughts, immediately, report all suicidal signs to a medical doctor or professional to prevent fatal complications.
