Depression in men

With all that’s going on in my family right now, I thought I’d talk about the subject of depression in men. Why am I talking about this on a site called Self Confidence 101? Well I think low confidence and self esteem can be very closely related to depression. If you’re depressed, you’re very unlikely to feel confident about taking on a new task.

Depression affects both men and women, but usually men and women respond differently.

Because men are less likely than women to talk about their moods or how they feel emotionally, their depression is often not picked up. If it isn’t detected, it cannot be treated and can then become severe and disabling.

Depression is a common, serious illness
Depression is more than just a low mood – it’s a serious illness that requires attention. People with depression find it hard to manage everyday activities. Depression can have serious effects on physical as well as mental health.

Depression is a known high risk factor for suicide. From 1998 to 2002, the suicide rate in Australia was four times higher in men than women.

Symptoms of depression:

A person may be depressed if they have felt sad, down or miserable most of the time, or lost interest in the things they usually enjoy, for more than two weeks.

Here is a list of other possible symptoms:

General slowing down or restlessness
Neglecting responsibilities and not looking after yourself
Withdrawing from family and friends
Becoming confused, worried and agitated
Inability to find pleasure in any activity
Finding it difficult to get motivated in the morning
Behaving differently from usual
Denying depressive feelings – this can be used as a defense mechanism
Indecisiveness
Loss of self-esteem (see?!)
Persistent suicidal thoughts
Talking negatively e.g. ‘I’m a failure’, ‘ It’s my fault’, ‘Life isn’t worth living’
Worrying about finances
Perceived change of status within the family
Moodiness or irritability – this can come across as anger or aggression
Sadness, hopelessness or emptiness
Feeling overwhelmed, worthless or guilty
Sleeping more or less than usual
Feeling tired all the time
Unexplained headaches, backache or similar complaints
Digestive upsets, nausea, changes in bowel habits
Agitation, hand-wringing, pacing
Loss or change of appetite
Significant weight loss or gain.

If after reading this list you feel you may be suffering from depression, then please get help – you might be surprised at how much better life could be, once you are treated!