Men often fall victim to depression but are historically less likely to seek help than women. Untreated depression can lead to suicide. For this and other reasons, it is important to seek help for this common mental-health problem. Several factors increase a man's risk of becoming depressed.
Alcohol Abuse
According to the Mayo Clinic, alcohol abuse increases the risk of developing depression. Many men are unaware that alcoholic drinks are chemical depressants that slow the nervous system. Over time, alcohol overuse can lead to feelings of depression. This is exacerbated if the abuse causes relationship difficulties, financial problems or impaired job performance. Many males reach for alcohol as a way to cope with feelings of depression rather than seek treatment. This cycle can result in suicide, abuse of stronger drugs, significant health problems, legal problems or automobile accidents.
Divorce
Marital separation and divorce are vulnerable times for a man, sometimes leading to depressive symptoms. The perceived inability to keep his family together may feel overwhelming, causing him to become angry and impulsive rather than seeking help. Over time, this anger and feeling of loss of control can lead to depression.
Low Stress Tolerance
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, men with a low stress tolerance may be more apt to become depressed. This is likely due to the action of brain chemicals present in the stress response and their influence on emotional state.
Family History
A 2006 article in the journal Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing indicates that a history of depression in a parent, sibling or child dramatically increases the risk of developing the disorder. Other familial factors that influence depression include a history of suicide, alcoholism and drug abuse.
Impulsivity
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, men who are impulsive may have a stronger tendency for depression. Closely correlated, men who act out and engage in risky behaviors also face this increased risk. A man who finds himself arrested multiple times for violent or aggressive behavior may be at risk of depression or may be acting out as a coping mechanism for dealing with existing depression.
References
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing; "Concepts of Care in Evidence-Based Practice"; Mary C. Townsend, M.N., A.P.R.N.; 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Depression: Risk Factors
- Mayo Clinic: Male Depression: Understanding the Issues
- Mayo Clinic: Depression: Risk Factors
- Radford University: The Effect of Alcohol on You
