According to the American Psychiatric Association, the number of women diagnosed with depression is two to four times higher than the number for men, yet in 2012, of the thousands of people that committed suicide, 78.3% were men. The disparity is alarming, and there are many reasons why treatment is not sought by men and why the rate of suicide is so high among them.
According to researchers, the view of depression as a “feminine” illness is one of the many reasons men oftentimes do not seek treatment and instead find other methods to cope with depression, among them but not limited to:
- Anger
- Short temper
- Use of drugs, alcohol, and sexual dysfunction
- Overwork
- Excessive weight gain or loss and insomnia
For men, these are some of the non-traditional symptoms they experience without admitting they are suffering from depression, or oftentimes without even realizing it. Seeking professional help to hep diagnosed and find treatment for their depression is paramount. Many of them turn to alcohol and drugs instead of looking for professional help. Some of them believe they can get through their depression by themselves.
If you need help and are reluctant to seek it, reach to a friend, or a loved one for help first. They may be able to help you reach a professional and start the process of healing.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the suicide rates in the United States have increased since 1999 for every state in the country except Nevada which has seen a decrease of 1%. In Ohio, on the other hand, the state has a suicide rate increase of 36% since 1999. And although depression is a mental illness and one of the causes of suicide, it can be preventable and treatable.
If you have a loved one that is suffering from depression or has suicidal thoughts, you should seek help right away. Depression is serious and help is available through many government agencies. Calling 911 or the suicide prevention Lifeline 1-800-273 TALK (8255) can get you on the way to health.
