A man experiencing a headache, one of the signs of depression in men.

How to Spot Signs of Depression in Men

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Everyone struggles with their mental health from time to time. In fact, studies show that half of the population will develop a mental health disorder within their lifetime.

Clinical depression is one of the most common disorders that men and women suffer from. However, signs of depression in men are harder to spot — and they’re far less likely to seek help when they need it.

Mental health is a crucial part of everyone’s well-being. It’s important to treat depression like any other medical condition and seek treatment when you are struggling.

*If this is an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Why Men’s Mental Health Problems Go Unnoticed

Men are less likely to seek treatment for major depressive disorder or even share their struggles with others. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, rates of depression are higher among women than men – but this is likely due to lack of treatment or reporting. When men do not seek treatment for mental health issues, they never receive a diagnosis (which leads to worse side effects).

Feelings of Shame

Many of the reasons why men struggle to share their mental health issues is because of outdated societal ideas about what it means to be a man.

Society views men as protectors, often pressuring them to be stoic and strong. The idea of being a protector can be positive. It gives men a sense of self-esteem and encourages them to be there for others.

The idea that men must be strong at all times and show a limited range of emotions is harmful. When you’re a man struggling with your mental health or severe depression, it can cause you to feel ashamed of your own feelings. This can keep you from reaching out for help from loved ones like friends and family members or a mental health professional.

Feelings of Isolation

All human beings feel a range of emotions, including feelings of sadness and vulnerability. Sharing them often leads to deeper connections with those around us.

When you feel ashamed of these feelings and don’t share them with others, it leads to feelings of isolation. They may feel incredibly alone when dealing with difficult life events or struggling with a mental health condition.

Lack of Social Support Systems

The feeling of isolation also stems from a lack of intimate social relationships.

This doesn’t necessarily mean men have less friends than women. But the friendships between men often have a different quality. Female friendships are based on emotional connection and support, whereas male friendships are often activity-based, not always discussing feelings.

This means that men are less likely to turn to their male friends in times of need or ask for emotional support.

Negative Attitude Toward Mental Health Services

Men are socialized to feel like they can’t ask for help — or that asking for help in general is weak. This is another harmful idea of what masculinity should look like. It keeps men from leaning on their friends for support and prevents them from seeking out mental healthcare providers.

Men report a higher rate of negative attitudes towards mental health services than women and are far less likely to seek out mental health information and services. This can make their struggles with mental health issues harder overall.

Why Addressing Men’s Mental Health Matters

It’s important to give men the space to address their mental health struggles and the support they need to seek out professional healthcare. Without these changes, the rate of mental illness among men will increase — and produce more severe side effects.

The Consequences of Lack of Treatment

Men’s mental health affects their physical health. Depression alone can lead to digestive issues or heart disease. And that’s not the worst of it.

Because men do not seek treatment or support, they are more likely to act on suicidal thoughts. In Western countries, men are 3.5 times more likely to commit suicide than women due to a lack of mental health treatment.

If you or a loved one have thoughts of self-harm or want to attempt suicide, find support ASAP. You can call or text 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 24/7. This helpline can help you navigate your suicidal thoughts confidentially or help you find resources for your loved one who is suffering. You can also contact the Crisis Lifeline online through their website. 

Rising Rates of Mental Illness in Young Men

Across genders and ages, mental health issues are on the rise.

This is especially true of young people. The prevalence of depressive episodes for men aged 18 – 25 years is higher than those 26 and up. In 2022, 30% of men in this age bracket reported experiencing depressed moods.

What Causes Male Depression

The causes of depression vary for each individual, but there are some common risk factors.

Major Life Events

Major life events like losing a job, divorce, the death of a family member, unemployment, or abuse can cause depression in men.

Societal Issues

Societal issues, such as social pressure, occupational stresses, poverty, housing insecurity, and feelings of isolation increase the risk of depression.

Substance Use

Alcohol and drug use worsen depression symptoms.

Physical Health

Physical health issues, such as the diagnosis of a major illness or abnormal hormone levels, increase the likelihood of depression.

Symptoms of Depression for Men

There are some common symptoms of depression for both men and women, such as difficulty sleeping, persistent feelings of sadness, and loss of interest in hobbies. However, men tend to display symptoms a little differently.

Emotional Symptoms

    • Irritability
    • Aggression
    • Inability to focus

Physical Symptoms

    • Frequent headaches
    • Digestive problems
    • Body aches

Behavioral Symptoms

    • Risky behavior, such as gambling or drunk driving
    • Controlling or abusive behavior in relationships
    • Escapist behavior, such as excessive video game or sports playing
    • Overworking or obsessing about work
    • Substance abuse

Not every man suffering from depression may exhibit all these warning signs. For an accurate diagnosis, see a licensed mental healthcare professional who can work with you to develop a treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Men’s Mental Health

With the right help, you can manage your depression and live a more fulfilling life. There are plenty of effective treatment options available. With the help of a mental healthcare provider, you can find one that works for you.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps you identify negative thoughts and behavioral patterns. It uses structured, problem-oriented talk therapy and teaches mindfulness skills to counter them.

Antidepressants

Medication can reduce the symptoms of depression. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed, followed by serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Atypical antidepressants such as bupropion may also be prescribed if other medications aren’t effective.

Support Groups

Joining a support group can also be an effective way to deal with depression. Learning to express your mental health issues with others who are sympathetic and experience similar problems helps you overcome feelings of isolation and learn new coping strategies.

Men’s Mental Health Matters

Since society puts such an emphasis on men being stoic protectors, men’s mental health issues are often hidden. Signs of depression in men can be repressed or present differently than they do in women.

No matter who you are, experiencing feelings of sadness is a natural part of the human experience. Even depressive episodes or mental health struggles are much more common than we once believed — and there is no reason to feel ashamed.

If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, reach out and seek treatment.