Although men are less likely to
suffer from depression than women, 3 to 4 million men
in the United States are affected
by the illness. Men are less likely to admit to depression,
and doctors are less likely to suspect it. The rate
of suicide in men is four times that of women, though
more
women attempt it. In fact, after age 70, the rate of
men's suicide rises, reaching a peak after age 85.
Depression can also affect the physical health in men
differently from women. A new study shows that, although
depression is
associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease
in both men and women, only men suffer a high death rate.
Men's
depression is often masked by alcohol or drugs, or
by the socially acceptable habit of working excessively
long
hours. Depression typically shows up in men not as
feeling hopeless and helpless, but as being irritable,
angry,
and discouraged; hence, depression may be difficult
to recognize
as such in men. Even if a man realizes that he is depressed,
he may be less willing than a woman to seek help. Encouragement
and support from concerned family members can make
a difference. In the workplace, employee assistance professionals
or worksite
mental health programs can be of assistance in helping
men understand and accept depression as a real illness
that needs
treatment.
