Many men feel pressure to keep their struggles to themselves or “power through” difficult emotions. They may have been raised to disconnect from their emotions as a way to display strength. But mental health concerns like depression are real, and they don’t make anyone weak. They make us human.
Depression doesn’t always manifest as sadness. Sometimes, it shows up as irritability, withdrawal, or even physical pain. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the signs and know that help is available. No one should have to face it alone.
Why Male Depression Often Goes Unnoticed
Male depression can be harder to recognize; not because it’s rare, but because it often shows up in unexpected ways. Cultural expectations can play a role, with many men feeling pressure to stay “strong” or hide emotional pain. Instead of sadness, men may express depression in other ways, like anger or irritability, risky behaviors, or even physical symptoms like headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain.
According to the AMA Journal of Ethics, although men are diagnosed with depression half as often as women and are less likely to attempt suicide, they are three to four times more likely to die by suicide.1 Depression is not a sign of weakness. It’s a treatable condition, and help is within reach.
New Directions Mental Health is dedicated to supporting your mental health. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, we encourage you to reach out for immediate support through your local crisis services by dialing 988, contacting your local emergency services, or visiting your local emergency room.
Common Signs of Depression in Men
Depression affects everyone differently, but here are some symptoms that are more common in men include anger, escapism, and irritability.
Emotional signs of depression in men include:
- Loss of interest in things they used to enjoy: Whether it’s work, hobbies, or time with loved ones, men with depression often feel disconnected or uninterested.
- Irritability, frustration, or frequent anger: Depression doesn’t always feel like sadness; some men may feel more easily frustrated or on edge.
- Anxious behavior: Men may experience anxiety as a result of their depression, leading to restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and even panic attacks.
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness: This may include being overly critical of oneself or feeling like a burden to others.
- Suicidal thoughts: There might be mentions of “not wanting to be around anymore” or “wanting it to just be over.”
Behavioral signs of depression in men:
- Isolation: Men may withdraw from social interactions and isolate themselves, which can further worsen their depression.
- Issues with work or school: Difficulty concentrating or completing work or school tasks on time.
- Aggression: Some men “lash out,” experiencing their depression as anger instead of sadness.
- Escapism: Some men bury themselves in their work, school, or a specific hobby instead of having to socialize or confront their negative feelings.
Physical signs of depression in men:
- Changes in sleep or appetite: This can include sleeping too much or too little, or eating more or less than usual.
- Low energy or motivation: Daily tasks may start to feel more difficult or draining.
- Sexual issues: Loss of interest in sex, lower libido, or difficulty reaching climax.
- Physical ailments: Headaches, stomach issues, and muscle pain can also be signs of depression, mainly when no medical cause is found.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing several of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it could be a sign of male depression.
If you or a loved one are feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out for immediate support by contacting your local emergency services, visiting your local emergency room, or calling/texting the National Crisis Hotline at 988.
Risk Factors for Male Depression
Several factors can make someone more likely to experience depression. When it comes to men’s mental health, these risk factors often go unrecognized or are brushed aside.
Some common risk factors for depression in men include:
- Major life changes or stress: Job loss, divorce, retirement, or becoming a new parent can all bring emotional shifts.
- Health issues or chronic pain: Long-term health conditions, including heart disease or chronic pain, may increase the risk of depression.
- Family history of depression: If depression runs in your family, you may be more likely to experience it yourself.
- History of trauma or abuse: Past emotional, physical, or sexual abuse can lead to lasting mental health effects.
- Substance use: Alcohol or drug use can increase the risk of depression and mask symptoms.
- Isolation or lack of support: Feeling disconnected from others, whether due to distance, busy schedules, or emotional barriers, can make depression more likely.
Men may not always feel comfortable opening up about their problems, but recognizing these risk factors is a powerful first step in making mental health a priority.
When to Seek Support for Depression
It’s never too early or too late to seek support for depression or any mental health concern. Empathetic therapists are trained with tools to help people learn new coping skills and start to feel better, so even if you’re unsure of whether you’re dealing with depression or just having a hard time coping with a life change, it could be worth talking to someone.
Here are a few good reasons to connect with a mental health professional:
- You’ve noticed changes in mood, energy, or behavior that last for more than two weeks.
- You’re finding it harder to keep up with daily responsibilities.
- You’re using alcohol or drugs more often to cope.
- You feel like nothing is helping.
- You just want someone to talk to.
Therapy can help you explore what you’re feeling and why. It’s a safe, judgment-free space to begin your mental health journey.
Treatment for Depression in Men
- Therapy: Therapists usually take a tailored approach to each person’s unique needs, using a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other therapeutic approaches to understand more about their symptoms and learn helpful ways to cope. Our clinics specifically offer in-person and telehealth options to make care as convenient as possible.
- Medication: For some men with depression, medication is an integral part of treatment, usually starting with an SSRI or SNRI. A psychiatric provider will collaborate with you to find what works best for your body and mind.
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate underactive brain regions, often used when people don’t respond well to medications.
- Spravato®: An FDA-approved esketamine-based nasal spray, used for difficult-to-treat depression.
Get Understanding Depression Treatment Today Through New Directions Mental Health
New Directions Mental Health recognizes that every person’s experience with depression is unique. That’s why we offer support that is personalized, nonjudgmental, and grounded in compassion for our neighbors in Pittsburgh, Wexford, Washington, and across southwest Pennsylvania. Our services are designed to support men’s mental health in a way that feels approachable and effective.
Ready to take the next step in your mental health journey? Call 724.374.7414 or schedule your first appointment today.
Source:
- Swetlitz, N. (2021). Depression’s Problem With Men. AMA Journal of Ethics. https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/depressions-problem-men/2021-07