subject: Midlife Crisis And Associated Syndromes [print this page] Many men go through a midlife crisis during difficult transitions of their life. This may occur at any occasion including adolescence as well as during middle-age. Midlife Crisis is characterized by one of three syndromes: andropause, depression or IMS (irritable male syndrome). If you think that you or someone you love may be experiencing a midlife crisis, take a Free Andropause Quiz at IMH to determine whether it is andropause or not.
ANDROPAUSE
Andropause, or male menopause as it is often referred to, is the slowing down of testosterone production in men over the age of 40. Symptoms of Andropause include Night Sweats, Sleep Disturbances, Depression, Fatigue, Weight Gain, Decreased Libido and Impotence. It differs from Menopause in that males can reproduce well into old age, whereas females lose all ability to reproduce when they go through Menopause.
DEPRESSION
Depression is more common in males as they age. Although normally attributed to women, depression in males during their middle life goes unrecognized most of the time. Family, physicians and colleagues cannot usually pin down what exactly is wrong and statistically speaking it takes over 10 years for a middle aged male to be diagnosed with depression. Symptoms include fear of failure, restlessness, compulsiveness, spending more time in front of the computer or television, controlling behaviors, and alcoholism.
IRRITABLE MALE SYNDROME
Men are notorious for being the last to admit that they have a problem. Irritable Male Syndrome is exceedingly common among men of many different ages. This is probably the syndrome most associated with a midlife crisis and expressed through anger, frustration, anxiety and hypersensitivity. It has a lot to do with hormonal and chemical changes taking place in the aging male body, as well as stress and sometimes a loss of male identity. If you feel that you, or your partner may be experiencing Irritable Male Syndrome and it is putting a strain on your relationship then do not hesitate to visit with a therapist.
If you think that you or your loved one is experiencing a midlife crisis, it may be worth your time and effort to look into what is truly causing the symptoms. Whether it is Andropause, Depression or Irritable Male Syndrome, knowing the foundation can help in treating the symptoms. If it is your significant other you are worried about, it may be useful to stand back and let things unfold. Often is a condition that men will come out of once their hormones regulate.
