Male Depression
Male depression is a phenomenon quite common in middle aged men and is often a poorly diagnosed disorder. The reasons being that men think they are strong and deny being depressed as depression is viewed basically as a female affliction. It is common during Andropause or male menopause resulting in impotence and problems with male sexuality. They deny acknowledging problems as they do not co relate problems with sexuality to depression. While seeking professional help men tend to focus more on physical complaints like headache or digestive disorders rather than on the emotional issues and hence may not be diagnosed properly for depression and even if diagnosed refuse to seek treatment for mental health fearing the social stigma attached to it.
Symptoms of depression
The symptoms of depression are
- Problems with male sexuality
- Mood swings characterized by anger, frustration and violent behavior
- Loss of interest and concentration in areas like work, hobbies and sex
- Fatigue
- Inflated ego
- Dependence on alcohol, prescription drugs and substance abuse
- Insomnia
- Suicidal tendencies
Causes of depression:
As in the case of women, the exact reason is still unknown though genetic factor cannot be ruled as one of the causes. Stresses associated with modern day life can also be the cause for depression, the major trigger being job related stress or loss of a loved one, break up of an important relationship etc. can drive men deeper into depression. About 6 million American men are reported to have been affected by depression each year. 60-80% of adults never get professional help. Men with depression are twice as likely to die as men without depression.
Effects of depression
Studies have shown that the figures can be much higher as many cases go unreported as depression is seen as something that is unmanly and shameful as they believe that they can just get over that or can tough it out by ignoring the symptoms or resorting to overwork, excessive alcoholism, reckless driving and substance abuse etc. Depression left untreated can result in unhappy marital life or even divorce in some cases. It can even make the children prone to depression. Prolonged periods of depression have a telling effect on many organs including the heart. Studies have revealed that older the man the greater is the suicidal tendency.
Treatment
Depression is a highly treatable disorder when treated early on. 80-90% of them who have sought help have expressed relief from the symptoms. Men should be counseled towards seeking professional help by important and significant people in their lives and by enhancing their social support system and teaching them that there is nothing wrong with them and to love themselves for what they are. Setting realistic time tables and targets reduces stress and therefore depression. Proper diet, exercise, spirituality and psycho-therapy help in combating depression to a great extent. Anti depressants are freely available, but they should be used under proper medical supervision.
It is important to recognize the symptoms associated with male depression and seek timely remedial action.