The "Invisible" Male Depression
When discussing depression, many assume that women are far more affected than men. However, this impression is misleading—depression is one of the most common mental health disorders among men as well. The perception likely stems from the fact that men are less likely to seek medical help for depression and often display different symptoms than women.
This article highlights the most common symptoms of depression in men, the differences in diagnosis between men and women, and the connection between depression and loss of libido.
Common Symptoms of Depression in Men
At its core, the symptoms of depression are the same for both men and women. Both genders may experience:
• Persistent sadness and feelings of hopelessness
• Lack of motivation and energy
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleeping)
• Negative thoughts
However, in men, these symptoms are often overshadowed by more noticeable behavioral changes, such as:
• Increased irritability and frequent anger outbursts
• Poor impulse control
• Risk-taking behavior (e.g., reckless driving, extreme sports)
• Withdrawal from social life (losing interest in hobbies and relationships)
• Increased substance abuse (especially alcohol)
When asked about these symptoms, men often struggle to explain their heightened irritability and may acknowledge that their anger outbursts feel excessive or unjustified.
Men with depression frequently experience physical symptoms as well, such as:
• Breathing difficulties
• Tightness in the chest
• Unexplained aches and pains (e.g., chronic back pain)
Why Is Depression Harder to Diagnose in Men?
Many men don’t realize they are depressed—they often only notice the physical symptoms and fail to connect them to a mental health issue.
Additionally, men tend to seek medical help later than women. When they do visit a doctor, they often focus solely on their physical complaints, making it more challenging for healthcare professionals to recognize the underlying depression.
Moreover, many men self-medicate with alcohol or other substances, which can further obscure the diagnosis. In such cases, depression may only be identified once the patient seeks treatment for substance abuse.
If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself, it’s important to honestly discuss them with a doctor or therapist to facilitate an accurate diagnosis.
Can Depression Lead to Loss of Libido in Men?
Loss of sexual desire (libido loss) can have both physical and psychological causes. While vascular diseases or thyroid dysfunction can contribute to low libido, psychological conditions—particularly depression—are often the primary cause in men.
Depression affects hormonal balance, which in turn can impact sexual desire. Additionally, certain antidepressant medications (such as tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs) can further reduce libido as a side effect.
If you are experiencing libido loss alongside depression, it’s essential to discuss this with your doctor. They can determine the cause and, if necessary, adjust your medication.
How Is Depression in Men Treated?
If you suspect you may be suffering from depression, the first step is to consult a psychiatrist or psychotherapist.
• Mild or early-stage depression may be treated effectively with psychotherapy alone.
• The longer the depression has lasted or the more episodes a person has experienced, the longer treatment is typically required.
• If antidepressant medication is necessary, the right prescription depends on other health conditions and potential side effects.
It’s crucial to be transparent about any additional medical conditions and to report side effects to your doctor so that your treatment plan can be adjusted as needed.
Depression in men often goes undiagnosed for too long—but with the right support, it is treatable. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking help early can make all the difference.
