Depression is a pervasive mental health issue affecting millions globally, yet it is often misunderstood, especially concerning men and those who identify as male. Male depression is frequently under-diagnosed, and societal silence can exacerbate the problem.
Male depression is often under-diagnosed due to few reasons. Some include symptoms that do not easily map under the DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for depression, a lack in mental health literacy, and health care providers being unaware of the differences in clinical presentation.
Understanding how men present symptoms of depression differently from women— in coping mechanisms and help-seeking behaviors—is essential. At Soho Integrative EMDR, Dr. Leora Citrin specializes in addressing these unique challenges, offering personalized care tailored to each individual.
Handling Depression: Seeking Support vs. Taking Risks
One significant distinction between men and women in managing depression is their approach to seeking help. Women are generally more inclined to reach out for support from friends, family, or mental health professionals, fostering connection and relief. In contrast, men often engage in risk-taking behaviors—such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or overworking—as a way to cope. This reluctance to seek support can lead to isolation and prolonged suffering.
Men are socialized to believe that seeking support is a sign of weakness rather than an indication of strength. This is particularly problematic because if a man is able to determine he is depressed, but feels that he cannot ask for the help he needs, his world gets much smaller. This only exacerbates his struggles, and could lead to choosing lethal methods, as a way to gain back control of the situation.
Depression manifests differently in physical symptoms as well. Women often report overwhelming fatigue, feeling drained and lethargic, which disrupts daily life and motivation. Conversely, men may experience restlessness, struggling to sit still or feeling agitated. These physical manifestations can sometimes be misinterpreted as irritability or aggression, obscuring the underlying emotional distress.
Emotional processing also differs significantly. Women tend to internalize feelings, leading to self-criticism and feelings of worthlessness, contributing to anxiety and depressive symptoms. In contrast, men often externalize their emotions, displaying aggression or detachment. This externalization can make it more challenging to recognize male depression, as struggles may manifest through outward behaviors rather than internal feelings.
A man’s developmental stage can significantly influence his expression of depression. Younger men may engage in anger-laden behaviors, while older men might increase work hours or engage in extramarital affairs as a means of escape. Understanding these developmental differences is crucial for recognizing and addressing male depression effectively.
Another critical aspect of male depression is its link to sexual dysfunction. Conditions like erectile dysfunction or decreased libido can both stem from and contribute to depressive symptoms. Men may experience feelings of shame or inadequacy, which can worsen their depression. Open discussions about sexual health in therapy are essential for holistic treatment, as addressing sexual function can lead to improved emotional well-being.
Several factors contribute to depression in men:
The stigma surrounding male mental health remains a significant barrier. Societal expectations often frame vulnerability as weakness, leading many men to resist seeking help or acknowledging their symptoms. Additionally, a lack of understanding about how depression manifests in men, combined with limited access to mental health resources, further compounds the issue.
A challenge many men face is not being able to recognize that they are depressed. Oftentimes, they believe that they are 'going through a funk,' when in reality, they are depressed. Being able to recognize the symptoms is the first, and one of the most crucial steps, to getting professional help.
Fear of jeopardizing careers, relationships, or self-image by admitting to depression reinforces a cycle of silence. Creating spaces for open discussions about mental health is crucial to breaking this cycle.
Depression in men can be effectively treated through various approaches, including therapy, medication, and alternative therapies. Psychotherapy options such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help men develop healthier ways of thinking and coping with stress. Medications like antidepressants are also commonly prescribed to help regulate mood.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has gained recognition for its effectiveness in treating trauma-related depression. This therapy helps reprocess traumatic experiences, offering relief for men whose depression stems from past events.
In addition to traditional methods, alternative therapies like mindfulness, regular exercise, and a healthy diet have proven beneficial in alleviating depressive symptoms. A tailored approach, considering individual needs and preferences, ensures the best outcomes.
Supporting a man with depression begins with fostering open communication and empathy. Encourage honest conversations without judgment and validate their experiences. Avoid minimizing their feelings, as this can reinforce the stigma they face.
If you suspect a man that you care about is struggling with depression, it is essential to take a gentle and understanding approach. Talking about difficulties does not exacerbate them. In fact, you could be providing a sense of relief by inviting a conversation that was long overdue as the person themself did not know how to bring it up on their own.
Engagement in normalizing activities—like social events or physical exercise—can be beneficial, but it’s vital to approach these suggestions gently and not overwhelm them.
Family and friends play a critical role in helping a loved one access resources, including therapy or support groups. At Soho Integrative EMDR , we provide tailored care designed to help men break free from the grip of depression.
At Soho Integrative EMDR , we understand that addressing depression in men requires a compassionate, individualized strategy. Our therapy sessions, including EMDR, focus on the unique challenges men face—from societal pressures to emotional health improvement. We collaborate closely with each client to develop a personalized treatment plan in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, we offer free 15-minute phone consultations to explore how our services can help. Taking that first step could lead to meaningful, lasting change.