Depression affects more than 6 million American men each year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Depression is a serious illness that manifests differently in different people. Generally speaking, depressive symptoms may include lack of appetite, changes in sleep patterns, irritability, sadness or feelings of hopelessness. However, according to the National Institute of Health, depression affects men differently than it affects women. If your husband is depressed, it's important to recognize that he probably deals with it in a different way than you'd expect. For example, men may be more likely to admit to the physical symptoms of depression than mental symptoms such as feelings of sadness or worthlessness.
Step 1
Talk to your husband about depression. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, many men see depression as stigmatizing illness. He may not admit to feeling depressed even if he is experiencing many common symptoms of depression. Share information that you've read online, such as information on men and depression from the National Institute of Mental Health. This may help to normalize his experience and make him more receptive to seeking treatment.
Step 2
Ask him to seek treatment. He may not think of doing this on his own. According to Mental Health America of Eastern Missouri's guide "Depression in Men," men may perceive getting help as a sign of weakness or a character flaw. He may initially resist your attempts to help; however, it's important to tell him that the only way he's going to get better is if he gets professional help. Explain that 80 percent of people with depression get better with treatment. Ask him to make a doctor's appointment or make an appointment for him so he can get a proper diagnosis.
Step 3
Monitor his alcohol intake. Men are more likely to try to drown their feelings in alcohol, while women are more likely to allow themselves to cry and feel sad. Alcohol is a depressant and may exacerbate his symptoms. If you are concerned that he is abusing alcohol, you should mention this to his doctor and talk to your husband. If he's taking anti-depressants, he may not know that alcohol can cause adverse side effects.
Step 4
Exercise together. According to Mental Health America of Eastern Missouri, exercise can potentially decrease depressive symptoms. If he doesn't show interest in exercising, ask him to go for a short walk around your neighborhood after dinner. Getting him out of the house and engaged in some sort of physical activity can help boost his mood.
Step 5
Invite him to do something fun. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depressed people need diversions to get their mind off their depressed feelings. Ask him to go out to dinner or to see a movie together. If he refuses, accept this for now and ask him again at a later time.
