12 Common Signs of Male Depression

Male depression is very real, and most men try to ignore the issue. Depression in men does look a little different than it does in women. The most common difference is that depression may look like anger, and this can lead to difficulty in recognizing the problem. Women need to learn how to identify the signs and what to do to help the men in their lives.

Signs of Male Depression

Irrational anger or inappropriate frustration.

Most men who experience depression will commonly display episodes of anger. Becoming frustrated quickly can also indicate there is a struggle with male depression.

Low energy/poor concentration.

When people experience depression, they will often lack energy due to improper resting habits. Poor concentration is sometimes a result of a lack of quality sleep.

Feeling hopeless and empty.

Depression is the leading cause of feeling hopeless and having a pessimistic outlook. This isn’t just a form of sadness; it is a chronic feeling of despair.

Escapist behavior.

When men find ways to block out how they feel is it referred to as escaping. They try to block out what is going on by not facing the reality of the situation.

Physical symptoms.

It is typically harder for men to share their emotions and concerns about those emotions. They find it easier to explain the physical symptoms they are experiencing. These symptoms can include:

• Headaches.
• Body aches.
• Digestive problems.
• Heart palpitations/heart racing.
• Tightness in the chest.

Lack of sleep.

When a person exhibits depression, they may have trouble falling and staying asleep. This is a major indication of male depression. Lack of sleep is also a factor in the risk of having suicidal tendencies.

Self-medication or risky behavior.

Some men who suffer from male depression will engage in behaviors that are not normal for their character. They choose these behaviors to help paralyze the emotions they are not wanting to confront. These behaviors are typically self-destructive. Some of these behaviors include:

• Gambling.
• Unsafe sex.
• Reckless driving.
• Drinking too much alcohol.
• Experimenting with drugs.

Change in weight.

Depression can trigger a change in the person’s appetite. Eating more or less will result in a change in weight. It is thought that there are areas in the brain that respond to food that are affected by depression.

Lack of interest.

One red flag of male depression is when there is a decrease in the desire to do the things that were once enjoyed. Becoming withdrawn is a classic sign of depression, this also includes male depression.

Sexual dysfunction.

Sexual function can be affected in many ways by depression. This may be a lower sex drive, erectile dysfunction, difficulty in arousal, or delayed/absent orgasm. It is important to note that some medications for depression can also cause issues with sexual health.

Violent/abusive or controlling behavior.

Men are thought to be able to control their emotions. When affected by depression it may be harder for a man to hold it together which can cause volatile behavior. They may portray a hostile attitude.

Suicidal thoughts.

It is more common for men to experience suicidal thoughts when they suffer from depression. It has been noted in research that more men die from suicide than women. Threats or thoughts of suicide shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you find that you are hearing these types of statements, reach out for help to your local Christian counselor or a suicide helpline.

Christian counseling for men who are depressed

Battling chronic sadness is a sign of depression. You don’t have to face the battle alone. Even though you may feel as though people won’t understand, many suffer from male depression. You are not alone in this battle. God promises to help us when we are in need.

If you feel like you may be experiencing male depression, please reach out to a Christian counselor in your area. There are faith-based treatment plans to help you overcome the darkness of depression and begin to live the life that you once enjoyed.