Men and Depression

While depression can affect both men and women, research suggests that there may be differences in how men experience and express depression compared to women. Here are some scientific findings:

1. Prevalence: Depression is estimated to be more common in women compared to men. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), globally, women are about twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression.
2. Symptoms: Men and women may exhibit different symptoms of depression. Women tend to display more classic symptoms such as sadness, worthlessness, and guilt. In contrast, men may be more likely to exhibit symptoms such as irritability, anger, aggression, and reckless behaviour. They may also be more likely to report physical symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, and loss of interest in activities.
3. Societal Expectations: Societal expectations and gender roles can influence how men express and cope with depression. Traditional masculine norms often discourage men from openly discussing their emotions or seeking help for mental health issues. Men may feel pressure to appear strong, self-reliant, and in control, which can make it challenging for them to recognize and acknowledge their depressive symptoms.
4. Coping Mechanisms: Men and women may adopt different coping mechanisms when dealing with depression. Men may be more inclined to engage in behaviours like excessive work, substance abuse, or risk-taking activities as a way to distract themselves from their emotional pain. Women, on the other hand, maybe more likely to seek emotional support from friends and family or engage in activities that promote emotional well-being, such as talking about their feelings or seeking professional help.
5. Suicidal Behavior: Although women are more likely to be diagnosed with depression, men have higher rates of completed suicides. This discrepancy may be due to men’s preference for more lethal means and their lower likelihood of seeking help for their mental health issues.

While the underlying causes of depression are complex and multifaceted, there are some factors that may contribute to the development of depression in men differently than in women. Here are some potential causes and risk factors specific to men:

1. Societal Expectations and Masculine Norms: Traditional gender roles and societal expectations can impact men’s mental health. Men may feel pressure to conform to stereotypes of masculinity, such as being strong, self-reliant, and emotionally stoic. This can create barriers to seeking help and expressing emotions, leading to increased distress and a higher risk of depression.
2. Relationship and Work-Related Stress: Men may experience unique stressors related to their roles as providers and breadwinners. Financial pressures, work-related stress, and difficulties in relationships or marriage can contribute to feelings of frustration, failure, and depression.
3. Substance Abuse: Men may be more likely to turn to substance abuse as a way of coping with emotional distress. Alcohol or drug misuse can exacerbate depressive symptoms and increase the risk of developing depression.
4. Health Concerns: Certain health conditions or physical illnesses more commonly affecting men, such as cardiovascular disease or low testosterone levels, have been associated with an increased risk of depression.
5. Loneliness and Social Isolation: Men may face challenges in building and maintaining social connections due to factors such as societal expectations, work demands, and limited emotional support networks. Loneliness and social isolation can contribute to feelings of depression.
6. Stigma and Barriers to Help-Seeking: Men often encounter barriers when seeking mental health support, including stigma, shame, and a perceived need to handle their problems independently. These barriers may prevent them from seeking professional help, leading to untreated depression.

It’s important to note that these factors can interact and vary from person to person. The development of depression is influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors, and it is essential to consider the individual’s unique circumstances and experiences when understanding the causes of depression in men. Seeking professional help from a mental health provider can provide a more personalized evaluation and guidance.

It’s important to note that these findings are generalizations and may not apply to every individual. Each person’s experience of depression is unique, and factors such as culture, age, and individual differences play significant roles. If you or someone you know is experiencing depression, it’s essential to reach out to a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate support. Biofeedback is also a wonderful tool that helps with pinpointing the underlying stressors that could be influencing all imbalances that lead to depression. Biofeedback helps support recovery into homeostasis.