Caring for the Men in Your Life:
Mental Health and Men
Women are far more likely to receive treatment for mental health issues such as depression. But it’s a condition that can afflict men just as often, and with the same consequences.
In fact, men are four times more likely to commit suicide, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). More than 90 percent of people who commit suicide have a diagnosable mental disorder, such as depression or substance abuse.
Signs of depression
Knowing the signs of depression is the best way to help identify a mental health problem that may require medical attention. Symptoms of major depression include:
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Ongoing feelings of sadness and anxiety
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Loss of interest in activities that once brought enjoyment
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Excessive crying
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Decreased energy
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Increased restlessness and irritability
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Decreased ability to concentrate and make decisions
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Problems with eating
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Changes in sleep patterns
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Suicidal thoughts
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Increased feelings of guilt, helplessness and/or hopelessness
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Physical symptoms that cannot be treated with standard means (chronic pain, headaches)
If you observe several of these symptoms over two weeks or more, you should encourage that person to talk with his healthcare provider. Depression is usually diagnosed after a complete psychiatric and medical history performed by a psychiatrist or other mental health professional.
Here’s what you can do
The NIMH offers these suggestions if a man in your life is showing signs of depression.
Don’t bottle things up – If he’s had a major upset in his life, encourage him to talk about it.
Keep active – Get some exercise, even if it’s only a walk. It improves fitness, he’ll sleep better, and it can help him avoid dwelling on painful feelings.
Eat properly – Eat a balanced diet, with lots of fruits and vegetables.
Avoid alcohol and drugs – Alcohol may make him feel better in the short term, but it will make him more depressed in the long run.
Don’t get upset if he can’t sleep – Suggest that he do something restful that he enjoys, like reading, listening to the radio or watching television.
Use relaxation techniques – Get him to try relaxing activities such as exercise, audio-tapes, yoga and massage.
Do something he enjoys – Set time aside every week to do something he really enjoys—exercise, reading, a hobby.
Check out his lifestyle – A lot of people who have depression are perfectionists who drive themselves too hard. Set more realistic targets and reduce workload.
Take a break – It can be really helpful to get away and out of the normal routine for a few days. Even a few hours can be helpful.
Read about depression – A book about depression can help you to cope, but can also help friends and relatives to understand what you are going through.
While women may be more open to expressing their emotions, it’s important for men to understand that a mental health disorder is a serious concern for them as well. Men may resist seeking treatment, so remind them that treating a mental health disorder is no less important than treating a broken bone—and no less manly, either. A good place for him to start is consulting with his doctor.
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