Many men struggle with depression, but they try to hide it or ignore the symptoms. Some men believe that they shouldn't get depressed or are somehow less masculine if they suffer from depression. As a society we have to get serious about male depression, because more men than women commit suicide due to depressive disorders.
Irritability and Anger
Most women suffer from feelings of extreme guilt when they're depressed; however, men usually have strong feelings of anger and seem irritable on a regular basis. He may seem guarded and overly suspicious. For example, a man may snap at his children, get into arguments with coworkers and start physical fights if he is depressed. Just because he doesn't stay in bed and cry all day doesn't mean he isn't struggling with depression.
Isolation
Many men suffering from depression isolate themselves from others instead of talking about their feelings. Women are more likely to reach out to family and friends and are more likely to seek the help of a therapist. A man who's depressed may stop going to his Friday night poker games, stop returning his girlfriend's calls and call in sick to work more often. When friends or family members appear concerned and try to help, he might get angry and push them away, masking his feelings of depression.
Risky or Escapism Behavior
Men are more likely to participate in risky behavior when they're depressed than women. They might have unsafe sex on a regular basis, start gambling away life savings and drive recklessly. Men are also more likely to try to cope with their feelings of depression by using drugs or drinking alcohol. Another way that men try to escape their depression is by becoming overly involved in work or sports. For example, he might start spending 16 hours working every day to avoid his family and friends.
When someone's partaking in risky behaviors like this, it's a sign that he's struggling and possibly passively suicidal. It's important that he get help from a licensed mental health professional.
Shame and Guilt
Many men who are depressed feel worthless, hopeless, guilty and shameful. Men who feel like they aren't good enough or can't improve their situation may be at risk for depression. If you know a man who talks about the future as if he has no control, is unable to improve his life and doesn't feel like even trying to improve his life, he may be depressed. These feelings can lead to thoughts of suicide, which is a serious sign of depression.
