Depression , once labeled a woman's disease, is being recognized more frequently in men. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 6 million American men have depression each year.
Male depression may include symptoms not normally thought of as the classic depression symptoms. As a result, depression can be difficult to recognize in men. Doctors may then be less likely to suspect it as the cause of a man's complaints. Men may also not be willing to admit that they are feeling depressed. The condition may be seen as a bad mark for masculinity in men who want to preserve the image of toughness and endurance.
In addition to male associated symptoms, men may also experience classic symptoms:
Untreated depression has been linked to suicide. Men die by suicide almost four times more than women, even though women make more suicide attempts. This could relate to the fact that women seek help more than men do. Also, men have more access to firearms. Guns are used more than other method to commit suicide (accounting for 58% of all gun deaths in the US).
Thoughts of suicide are an emergency. Someone who is planning on committing suicide may:
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
Two-thirds of people who suffer from depression do not seek help. It is crucial, however, that depression be diagnosed and treated. Of those who seek treatment, 80% experience significant improvement and lead productive lives.
RESOURCES:
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
http://www.ndmda.org
International Foundation for Research and Education on Depression
http://www.ifred.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Psychiatric Association
http://www.cpa-apc.org/
Canadian Psychological Association
http://www.cpa.ca/cpasite/home.asp/
References:
Firearms and suicide. Physicians for Social Responsibility website. Available at: http://www.psrla.org/documents/suicide_fact_sheet_final.pdf. Accessed June 9, 2009.
Scholten A. Preventing Adolescent Suicide: What You Can Do. EBSCO Health Library website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/thisTopic.php?marketID=15topicID=81. Updated July 2008. Accessed June 9, 2009.
Last reviewed May 2009 by Theodor B. Rais, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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