Male Depression

Asking for help can be hard for men. But without treatment, depression is unlikely to go away, and it may get worse. Untreated depression can make you and the people close to you miserable. It can cause problems in every aspect of your life, including your health, career, relationships and personal safety. According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS), men are around three times more likely to commit suicide when compared to women - and depression can be a key driver for this

Men with depression may:

• Not get pleasure from activities usually enjoyed
  
• Feel sad, hopeless or empty
  
• Feel extremely tired
  
• Have difficulty sleeping or sleep too much
  

Other behaviours in men that could be signs of depression include:

• Physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive problems and pain
  
• Problems with alcohol or drug use
  
• Irritability or inappropriate anger
  
• Risky behaviour, such as reckless driving
  
• Controlling, violent or abusive behaviour
  
• Escapist behaviour, such as spending a lot of time at work or on sports
  

Depression usually improves with medications or talking therapies such as psychotherapy. If you or someone close to you thinks you may be depressed, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. It's a sign of strength to ask for advice or seek help when you need it.

What Causes Depression in Men?
Causes of depression can vary between men and women, but many of the most common are consistent across both genders. Potential causes of depression include:

• Difficult life events
  

Going through difficult life events such as divorce, losing your job or a bereavement.

• Alcohol consumption
  

Depression in men is often associated with excessive alcohol consumption. Excessive drinking can lead to problems in your relationships and working life which in turn can lead to depression. Excessive drinking can cause depression even in people who are not alcohol dependant.

• Family or personal history
  

Research has shown that genes can play a role in how likely you are to develop depression.

• Abuse
  

Physical, sexual or emotional abuse are common triggers for depression, as is neglect or negative experiences during childhood.

• Physical health
  

Chronic or life-limiting physical health problems can also lead to depression. Physical health problems can leave you feeling unhappy or sad if your condition has affected how you live your life.

• Middle Age Angst
  

A feeling that you are running out of time and that you have not achieved what you hoped you would. You no longer have youth and optimism on your side and feel like you have squandered your abilities and are a failure.

Personality Traits

Personality traits could mean you are more likely to develop depression.

• Low self-esteem
  
• Anxious
  
• Perfectionist
  
• Self-critical
  

Treatment
Depression usually improves with medications or talking therapies such as psychotherapy and group therapy. If you or someone close to you thinks you may be depressed, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.


These issues can quickly develop into depression if support or relief is not forthcoming.