Male Depression

There are twice as many women who suffer from some form of depression than men. Male depression is often ignored because the male will try to hide his depression in a bottle of alcohol or in drugs. Men are four times more likely to commit suicide than women are. This is all the more reason that men who are depressed seek help for themselves. Men will become more violent than women if they are suffering from depression. They not even be aware that they have a problem or if they do, they will not admit it or seek help.

Causes of depression can be one of many things. Scientists believe it is caused from a chemical imbalance in the body and different events in our lives trigger the depression. There is a chance that it is inherited too. Some of the events in one's life that can trigger depression is the loss of a loved one, divorce, abuse from childhood (mental, physical, or sexual), physical illnesses, and sometimes there are no rhyme or reason for the depression. It may have been passed down for generations. The main thing is to get it diagnosed and treated as soon as you can so you can be back on the road to recovery. Many people go undiagnosed because they do not realize they even have a problem. They see their actions as a way of life and think it is normal. Sudden outbursts of rage or withdrawing from your normal activities or hobbies are signs of depression. Suffering from depression is nothing to be ashamed of. You are not alone. There are at least 16% of all Americans suffer from some form of depression. The chemical imbalance which causes it is not your fault.

Symptoms of depression are quick mood changes, sleeping disorders (trouble sleeping or sleeping too much), eating disorders ( eating a lot more or a lot less than usual), rapid weight gain or loss (five pounds or more per week), lack of concentration, cannot make rational decisions, restless, feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or feelings of guilt, low energy level, tired most of the time, even when you haven't done anything, lack of interest in things that used to interest you (even sex), and thoughts of death or suicide. If you are having one or more of these symptoms, you should seek professional help. Your doctor can diagnose your form of depression if indeed you are suffering from it and prescribe the right treatment for you. There are four types of depression treatments and the doctor may suggest one or more of them for you. Medications, Psychotherapy, Self-Care, and Electroconvulsive Therapy are the treatments available and they will work hand in hand to get you back where you need to be. The first move is to seek help and the sooner the better.