Depression has nothing to do with personal weakness or gender. Fighting depression and the stigma attached to it is tough enough and adding unrealistic expectations about:
"men are not to show emotions"
Being a depressed male means you are not manly but it makes things even worse .
Things men with depression want you to know:
1. Sometime their depression shows up as anger.
2. It is the hardest thing to allow themselves to be vulnerable and open about their depression.
3. They can't turn off their depression because you asked nicely.
4. It's not realistic to expect them to be strong all the time.
5. Beyond the seemingly hard exterior, is often a man with a sensitive soul and feelings and emotions that are raw and real.
6. Sometimes when they say "no" it's not because they don't want to accept your invitation but keeping up appearances is difficult at times.
7. Depression doesn't acknowledge the phrase 'man up.'
8. They would never want you to feel the pain they carry every moment of every day.
9. Depression ultimately affects their ability to be a good parents, employee or spouse.
Common Symptoms of Male Depression
- Sad, empty or hopeless feelings/extreme fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- No interest in things that were previously pleasurable
- Using work or sports as a way of escape
- Headaches, digestive problems and unexplained aches or pains
- Alcohol or drug issues
- Irritability or excessive anger, even in instances where anger anger isn't warranted
- Reckless driving
Coping Tools
- Prioritize task and set realistic goals
- Get involved in social activities
- Seek out emotional support
- Learn ways to manage stress
- Watch what you eat
- Exercise
- Avoid alcohol/drugs
- Confide in someone you trust
- Take a day off every now and then
- Learn to say no and avoid people who put you down
- Engage in a hobby
- Indulge in self care and reward yourself occasionally.