TYRONE, Ga. — We all know that depression can affect anyone, but in some men the signs can be harder to tell. Men who are depressed are more likely to show it with anger and aggression. Because those are not typical depression symptoms, it can be harder to recognize what's going on.
When we think about men who are depressed, Dr. Suvrat Bhargave of the Center for Family Psychiatry in Tyrone, Ga., says we often assume they will feel sad.
"It turns out the number one symptom of depression in men is not sadness, it’s often irritability," said Bhargave. "So, being more easily irritated, frustrated, having big reactions to things, and men who are depressed understand that they are irritable... it's not as though they don't realize that their reactions are much bigger than they used to be.”
The National Institute of Mental Health says other common signs of depression in men can include feelings of anxiousness or restlessness; loss of interest in work, family, or hobbies; problems with sexual desire and performance; feeling sad, "empty," flat, or hopeless; and not being able to concentrate or remember details.
“It can affect their energy level and how much they can do things," Bhargave noted. "Their focus can often be affected when they're depressed. Sleep patterns will change, and even their appetites will sometimes change."
A message Bhargave says men experiencing these issues need to hear is that it is okay to ask for help because there is a way for them to feel better.
Treatment options usually include medication like antidepressants, or talk therapy, or a combination of the two.
"Start the discussion," the doctor urged. "Talk to their primary care doctors, talk to a therapist, come in and see a psychiatrist. Whoever you're comfortable talking to -- just begin the discussion and trust that the expert will be able to tell you what's the best plan for you."
Dr. Bhargave says that with the right treatment, most men can get better. If you are not sure where to start with getting help, speak with your primary care doctor about what's going on.