Understanding the signs of depression in males
Unique signs of emotional distress and depression in men: Understanding the hidden struggles
Depression, a common mental health issue, affects millions worldwide. However, recognising the unique symptoms of depression in men is crucial for providing timely and accurate support. Men with depression are more likely to die by suicide at higher rates compared to women, often selecting more lethal methods [1].
One of the key differences between men and women in the manifestation of depression lies in the expression of symptoms. Men with depression often show irritability, anger, and aggression rather than overt sadness or tearfulness [2][4]. They might have short temper episodes or fits of anger, which can mask underlying depression. Men may also exhibit reckless behavior, substance abuse, and complain of fatigue or sleep problems instead of acknowledging feelings of hopelessness or self-loathing [4].
In contrast, women with depression more commonly display symptoms like excessive crying, pronounced feelings of guilt, oversleeping, overeating, weight gain, and anxiety [1][3][4]. Women's depression is also influenced by biological factors such as hormonal fluctuations related to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, postpartum period, and menopause, which can intensify emotional distress [3][4].
It's important to note that while both genders share some symptoms such as changes in sleep, energy, or focus, men’s depression is more likely hidden behind behaviours like irritability and anger, while women’s symptoms tend to include more openly expressed sadness and anxiety [4].
Men tend to have less visible expressions of emotional distress, often downplaying symptoms or avoiding seeking help, which contributes to underdiagnosis [2]. This reluctance to acknowledge and discuss emotional struggles can lead to increased risks of harm and emotional instability.
Mental health struggles can manifest as physical problems, leading to confusing or misleading signs and symptoms. Ongoing headaches, chest tightness, racing heart, or digestive issues can reflect underlying psychological distress in men [5].
Early recognition and intervention significantly improve recovery outcomes and overall mental health for men experiencing depression. However, men are generally less likely to openly acknowledge or discuss their struggles with depression, increasing risks of worsening mental health [6].
Promoting healthy coping strategies helps men replace harmful behaviours with constructive ways of managing depression. Substance misuse in men can worsen depression and create dangerous cycles of addiction over time [7]. Raising awareness reduces stigma and encourages men to openly discuss emotional struggles without fear of judgement.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, it's essential to seek help. Vilhelmiina Välimäki, a Finnish psychologist, offers support to individuals, couples, and families at our website. You can contact her on vilhelmiina@our website or 9944 9910.
[1] World Health Organization. (2020). Depression. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
[2] American Psychological Association. (2019). Men and depression. https://www.apa.org/topics/men-and-depression
[3] National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Depression in Women. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/women-and-depression/index.shtml
[4] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Depression symptoms: When to seek help. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-symptoms/art-20048389
[5] National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Depression. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml
[6] Mental Health America. (2021). Men's Mental Health. https://www.mhanational.org/issues/mens-mental-health
[7] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). Co-occurring Disorders. https://www.samhsa.gov/co-occurring-disorders
- Science has indicated that men with mental health issues, such as depression, often exhibit symptoms like irritability, aggression, reckless behavior, substance abuse, fatigue, and sleep problems, rather than overt sadness or tearfulness, highlighting the need for a better understanding of mental-health issues in men's-health.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, it's essential to recognize that mental health struggles in men can manifest as physical problems, making early recognition challenging and underscoring the importance of educating oneself on the hidden signs of emotional distress in men.
