Young males aged 13 to 25 experience their own set of challenges as they adapt to adolescence and young adulthood. Unsuccessful adaptation or other factors can lead to depression. While some symptoms may be noticeable to family or friends, others will only be noticed by the person experiencing them. Signs of depression must be taken seriously as severe depression can lead to suicide. If you notice symptoms of depression in yourself or a loved one, seek help from a mental health professional.
Sadness
The young male may experience overwhelming sadness, cry often and see his problems as hopeless. He may be easily discouraged and have a pessimistic outlook.
Withdrawal
The sufferer of depression may withdraw from friends, family and his usual activities. He may drop out of school, sports or clubs and may lose interest in sex or dating.
Loss of Self-Worth
The depressed male may view himself as unworthy and useless. He may see himself as an impediment to the success and happiness of others and may make remarks such as he is "ruining everything for everyone."
Criminal Activity or Delinquency
Some young males with depression will commit criminal acts such as shoplifting. They may violate family rules and be rude or silent when questioned.
Fatigue or Sleep Difficulties
The male with depression may experience fatigue and have a low energy level most of the time. He may sleep for many hours at a time or be unable to sleep soundly through the night. He may view getting out of bed as requiring too much energy and stay in bed much longer than usual.
Restlessness
A depressed male may be restless and irritable. He may pace, fiddle with objects and seem unable to sit still.
Appetite Changes
The young male may seem ravenous and eat in an attempt to control his feelings. Alternatively, he may lose his appetite and experience weight loss.
Concentration
He may have great difficulty concentrating and fall behind on his schoolwork or work tasks. It may take an hour to perform a mental task that normally requires 30 minutes.
Self-Destructive Behavior
The young, depressed male may become self-destructive and fall into substance abuse. He may drive dangerously and take unnecessary risks.
Physical Complaints
Signs of young male depression include multiple physical complaints such as recurrent headaches, backaches, stomach aches or aching all over. For a few depression sufferers, these may be the only symptoms they acknowledge.
Suicide Attempt
The most serious symptom of depression is a suicide attempt. Any verbalization of wishing to die or to end one's suffering must be taken seriously. Also seek help for the young male who begins to give away his treasured belongings.
