The strong, silent man

The rising incidence of depression in men is an important issue in Australia. Men are not very good at talking about how they feel and are typically less likely to seek treatment for depression as a lot of men see it as a weakness.  However if left untreated, depression in men can lead to tragic circumstances such as family break up or even suicide.

The traditional signs and symptoms of female depression may not present in men. They are more likely to express their depression outwardly with anger and aggression or even experience physical symptoms such as headache, backache or low sex drive.  They are unlikely to visit a GP and say 'I think I'm depressed'.  Instead, it is more common for them to say to their doctor that they are experiencing a lot of headaches, fatigue, and possibly substance abuse. Unfortunately this can often result in depression in men being undiagnosed and untreated. Some symptoms of depression that men may experience include:

• Fatigue 
• Irritability
• Anger (sometimes abusive in nature) 
• Loss of interest in work or hobbies  
• Sleep disturbances  
• Self medicating with drugs and alcohol
• Chronic financial and work stress
• Relationship problems

If left untreated, more severe symptoms can develop such as:

• Depressed mood most of the day
• Pursuing risky behaviours
• Having unsafe sex with multiple partners
• Heavy use of alcohol
• Relationship breakdown
• Reduced interest and pleasure in all/almost all activities
• Feeling of hopelessness and pessimism about the future
• Feeling worthless, weak and useless
• Feeling intense loneliness and abandonment even when they are being supported by loved ones
• Isolating themselves from family and friends
• Acting out in angry and hostile ways

Why are men less likely to seek help for depression?

Sadly, many men silently struggle with depression for a long time.  This is why death from suicide is a lot higher in men than women.  But why are men less likely than women to seek help?  There are a lot of old myths that surround depression, such as 'depression is a form of weakness' or 'a man should be able to deal with his feelings'.   Some people still think 'a man shouldn't need to ask for help'. More people need to start understanding that depression is a real illness that can effect anyone, man, woman or child.  It is an illness that needs to be treated or it will simply worsen over time.


Swan Valley Psychology

If you or someone that you know are suffering from depression, contact us at Swan Valley Psychology. 

• We provide a highly professional clinical psychology service and also a high standard of care to our clients. 
• We are situated on the edge of the Swan Valley, Perth 
• Our service is outcome and solution focussed and clients should expect to see some improvements in four to eight sessions, depending on their issues.
• We are happy to see people from childhood to adult and also welcomes people with Workers Compensation or Insurance Claims. People in the Family Court or involved in criminal court matters are also welcome. 

Swan Valley Psychology
Phone: 08 9379 3580
Fax: 08 93793557
Address: 85 Walter Road East, Bassendean 6054
Web: www.svpc.com.au
Email: Christina@svpc.com.au