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Men and Depression

Approximately six million men in the United States suffer from depression every year. Men have lower rates of depression than women. Men are less likely to admit depression and seek treatment. Doctors are less likely to suspect depression in men than women. The suicide rate for men is four times that of women and after the age of 70, the men's suicide rate climbs.

In general, both men and women develop the same symptoms of depression. However, they tend to experience depression differently and have differing methods of coping with the symptoms. Men report feelings of fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work, anger and sleep disorders more frequently. Women tend to report feelings of sadness, worthlessness and excessive guilt more frequently.

Although the differences are not great, clinical depression can have different physical effects on men than women. Both men and women who are depressed have an increased risk of coronary heart disease but men suffer a higher death rate.

Depression is appearing in boys at earlier ages than in the past. A recent study of boys from the ages of nine to seventeen found that six percent had some form of depression during a six month period.

Frequently men are in denial and refuse to acknowledge their feelings. Often men's depression is hidden by alcohol or drug abuse. Other men work excessively long hours to conceal their condition. Sometimes friends, relatives and doctors do not recognize depression in men because the condition is "hidden" behind an emotional wall of anger, irritability and discouragement.

Some men react to depression by taking risks, engaging in dangerous behavior or becoming violently abusive. Typically, these men will not ask for treatment help or they will maintain their denial.

In general, when a man admits that he is depressed he is usually less willing than a woman to seek help. These men need the support of their family and friends to pursue treatment. In the job or workplace, there are various employee assistance programs or professionals that can be of assistance in helping men deal with depression.

More research is needed to understand the complex nature of depression in men. More information is needed about how men respond to the stresses and emotions associated with depression. And more information is needed to help them find the appropriate treatment.

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