Depression in men often looks different from depression in women.

While sadness and withdrawal are common, men are more likely to experience irritability, anger, risk-taking behaviors, and physical symptoms rather than openly expressing sadness.

The following are the signs that males typically experience:

1. Emotional symptoms
   
   

• • Irritability and anger: Being easily frustrated, short-tempered, or aggressive.
  • Feeling “numb” or disconnected: Lack of emotions rather than vast sadness.
  • Hopelessness or emptiness: Believing that nothing will get better.
  • Increased anxiety: Being constantly on edge or restless.
  • Low self-esteem: Feeling like a disappointment, but not necessarily talking about it.
  • Sudden bursts of anger or aggression: Reacting strongly to minor annoyances or frustrations.
  • Extreme cynicism or negativity: Constantly feeling distrustful, pessimistic, or resentful.
  • Excessive guilt or shame: Feeling like a failure or a burden to others.
  • Difficulty expressing vulnerability: Struggling to open up to others or acknowledge emotions.

2. Behavioral symptoms
   
   

• • Working excessively: Working an extreme amount as a distraction from emotions.
  • Substance abuse: Increased alcohol or drug use to cope with intense feelings.
  • Reckless behavior: Engaging in risky activities like reckless driving, gambling, or unsafe sex.
  • Withdrawal from relationships: Avoiding family, friends, or social activities.
  • Losing interest in hobbies: No longer enjoying sports, sex, or things they once loved.
  • Becoming overly independent – Refusing help, insisting on handling everything alone.
  • Avoiding emotional conversations: Changing the subject or making jokes when emotions come up.
  • Engaging in unnecessary distractions: Constantly playing video games, watching TV, or working out to avoid thinking.
  • Compulsive behavior: Undue gambling, online shopping, or risky financial decisions.
  • Sudden changes in social behavior: Withdrawing completely or becoming extremely social to avoid being alone.

3. Physical symptoms
   
   

• • Chronic fatigue: Feeling exhausted even after resting.
  • Sleep disturbances: Either insomnia or sleeping too much.
  • Unexplained aches and pains: Headaches, muscle tension, back pain, or digestive issues.
  • Changes in appetite: Eating too much or too little, leading to weight changes.
  • Increased reliance on stimulants: Consuming more caffeine, nicotine, or energy drinks to stay alert.
  • Sudden decline in personal hygiene: Letting grooming or self-care slip.
  • Changes in posture or body language: Slouching, avoiding eye contact, or looking tense.
  • Digestive issues: Chronic stomach problems, nausea, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

4. Cognitive symptoms
   

• • Trouble concentrating: Difficulty focusing at work or making decisions.
  • Negative thought patterns: Persistent feelings of failure or disappointment.
  • Suicidal thoughts: Thinking about self-harm or feeling like a burden.
  • Becoming highly self-critical: Feeling incapable or like nothing is ever good enough.
  • Difficulty making decisions: Even simple choices feel overbearing.
  • Frequent mistakes at work: Forgetting deadlines, losing attention, or feeling unmotivated.
  • Obsessing over the past: Dwelling on regrets or past failures.

Why depression in men is often overlooked

1. Men are less likely to talk about their emotions or seek help.
2. Their symptoms (anger, aggression, or risky behavior) can be misinterpreted as personality issues rather than depression.
3. They may dismiss their feelings as stress or burnout instead of recognizing depression.
4. Males may over-exercise and push the body to extreme limits as a way to “outrun” emotional pain.
5. May engage in risky sexual behavior, such as unsafe intercourse or seeking validation through sexual activity.
6. Men could start making sudden life changes, like quitting a job, ending a relationship, or making drastic decisions impulsively.

Final note

Recognizing depression in men is crucial, as symptoms often differ from those in women.

Instead of sadness, men may exhibit irritability, anger, risk-taking behaviors, or withdrawal from loved ones.

Physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues are also common.

Many may downplay their feelings or avoid seeking help due to societal expectations.

Understanding these signs can lead to early intervention, better coping strategies, and improved mental health outcomes.