A lot of the time, depression seems to be thought of as a woman’s problem. This theory is not unfounded, since the depression rate among women is nearly twice of what it is for men. Recent studies have indicated, though, that men are just as likely to be depressed, if not more so.
The difference between the two sexes lies in the stage of life that the depression occurs: depression usually affects men in their 40s and 50s, while with women it normally occurs during the teenage years, as well as the twenties.
Male depression often goes unrecognized by themselves, colleagues, family, and even doctors. This is due to differing symptoms from depressed women and a resistance of many men to seek help.
Listed below are some common symptoms men experience when suffering
from depression:
- Blaming of others
- Anger, irritability, ego inflation
- A tendency to create conflict
- Compulsiveness
- Becoming controlling
- Fear of failure
- Self-medicating through alcohol
Your Employee Assistance Program, administered by Magellan Health, has resources and experience to help you.
Resources:
- Visit www.magellanhealth.com or call 1-877-704-5696 for more information, referrals and support.
- Read more about SMU’s EAP Program on the BenefitsU website.
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