subject: Depression In Men [print this page] Regardless of age and gender, depression can afflict anyone, of any ethnicity, any gender or any socioeconomic background. Even thought it is commonly believed that women are more prone to fall prey to depression, men too are equally liable to suffer from it. Although the causes of depression and signs of depression among men may be different from that of women, men are more unlikely to admit or express their anxieties, which may lead to severe depression among men. It has been found that in the United States alone, about seven percent of men suffer annually fall prey to depression.
In men, the major cause of depression arises out of work related issues and next to that the major cause can be relationship issues. Work related stress leading to depression has induced a high suicide rate among men, the world over.
The chief reasons for harboring stress at work places are- having issues with career related plans, uncertain future at work, doubting the views and expectations of your boss or colleagues, working in an organization which does not have a well defined growth plan, not having permanent jobs etc. work related issues can be treated by opening a proper channel of communication among bosses and colleagues, not having high expectations and pushing yourself too much, not being overtly competitive and worry too much about the future and not treating every project too seriously and loosing unnecessary sleep over it.
Some men suffer an acute midlife crisis, which results in depressive tendencies. Between the ages of 35-50 men go through an emotional crisis and feel that there is too little time for doing too much. They feel that age is catching up with them and they have little time to prove their capabilities. Also men may not be able to deal very successfully with rising age and think that their looks as well as their performance levels have dropped considerably.
All these causes may induce men to feel bored, worthless, making them question where their lives are heading, both professionally and personally.
It is necessary to take the challenge of work place and age related issues head on. Friends and family need to be sensitive to the desolation and depression of such men and handle them gently and with loving care. If the symptoms of depression persist and become serious then it is advisable to take medical help to resolve the issue.
