Attention Men: Depression is Not Only a Women Problem

Clari Ng
Depression not only happens to women but to both sexes. Both men and women can be affected, although not similar in the susceptibility and causes. Why women are more known as depressive? It may be due to the nature of women that is more vocal and emotional, which leads them to express themselves more openly. They tend to share with others how they feel. They are more likely to seek help from others when they are getting depressed and facing problems. Men, on the other hand, tend to disclose themselves and it may be due to the ego that they are afraid to express their feeling, as much as seeking help from the others, no exceptions for friends and family. The primary reason maybe due to the social label and pressure that men should appear stronger, more successful and less emotional as compared to their sexual counterpart, women. They are expected so.

Well, there are a lot of things that may cause depression in men; but, the following are the most common:

Sex: Quite some men tend to equate their masculinity to their virility, in another word, sexual performance. When men feel that their partners are not satisfied of their love making, or they are stopped from taking action when they are ready for a shot, most men will feel frustrated accompanied by depressed and insecurity complex of feeling. It is ironical that sex-drive or libido can be reduced by some anti-depressant drugs; it can be quite a vicious cycle.

Pregnancy and Children: it is common for women to have depression, especially for those after gave birth to new born. This is called the post-partum depression known to most people. It is recognized that mothers are susceptible to depression when they are expecting or after giving birth to a baby. Some reasons including hormonal imbalance and body changes after giving birth. It is quite surprising that some fathers also experience depression because worry of their wives and children. 10% of the men feel down facing such a drastic change in life.

Relationships: For married men, the primary cause of depression is a discontented or unstable marriage. It seems that men find it tough to cope with quarrels and disputes with their spouses or wives. Since men are not very comfortable about having to argue with their partners, they tend to avoid confrontations, which can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety and eventually, depression

As you would expect, guys also feel awkward with the process of separation and divorce, especially if the process was initiated by their wives and girlfriends. Figures also show that men who are depressed due to a painful divorce are the ones most likely to commit suicide.

Retirement or Unemployment: Men usually put a lot of time, effort, and importance in their work rather than their personal life. In fact, many relationships and marriages have been broken because of men's desire to be on top and successful in his chosen field and career. Thus, it is indeed not surprising that when retirement comes, men feel insufficient and a bit depressed. The same is also true for those who suddenly find themselves suddenly out of a job. Moreover, it is also this factor that usually causes long-term depression, which often leads to alcoholism, drug abuse and even suicide.

If you think you are depressed, drinking away your blues will do more bad than good. First, you need to accept the fact that keeping your feelings to yourself can make you more distress and do things irrationally. Do not be afraid to share your feelings and problems with other people or even to your wife, girlfriend or close family relations.

Regular exercise and a balanced diet are also key parts in maintaining, if not eradicating, your dull mood. Exercise can help you sleep better, while eating healthy will ensure that you get the right amount of minerals and vitamins that your body and mind need to help you snap out of your depression.
Finally, Serelax and some other anti-depression supplements are encouraged for try out, effective for mild to moderate depression. They can help reducing stress and tension, while and as they promote restful sleep. Anyway it is wise to seek professional help if someone experiences long term depression with condition getting worse.

Reference: http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/28652/medical_conditions/does_depression_affect_men_differently_than_women.html

Published by Clari Ng

Graduated from Psychology study. Known as a musical guy, yet thinks himself interested in more things like Computers, games, sports and Photography.  View profile

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