"Some drugs, like alcohol (wine, beer, and hard liquor) or street drugs, may reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants and should be avoided."

"Discontinuation of medications, as appropriate, should be done gradually over a period of 6 weeks or longer."

Depression and Men


A man can experience depression in many different ways. He may be grumpy or irritable, or have lost his sense of humor. He might drink too much or abuse drugs. It may be that he physically or verbally abuses his wife and his kids. He might work all the time, or compulsively seek thrills in high risk behavior. Or, he may seem isolated, withdrawn, and no longer interested in the people or activities he used to enjoy.

Perhaps this man sounds like you. If so, it is important to understand that there is a brain disorder called depression that may be underlying these feelings and behaviors. Its real: scientists have developed sensitive imaging devices that enable us to see depression in the brain. And its treatable: more than 80 percent of those suffering from depression respond to existing treatments, and new ones are continually becoming available and helping more people. Talk to a healthcare provider about how you are feeling, and ask for help.

Or perhaps this man sound like someone you care about. Try to talk to him, or to someone who has a chance of getting through to him. Help him to understand that depression is a common illness among men and is nothing to be ashamed about. Encourage him to see a doctor and get an evaluation for depression.

For most men with depression, life doesnt have to be so dark and hopeless. Life is hard enough as it is; and treating depression can free up vital resources to cope with lifes challenges effectively. When a man is depressed, hes not the only one who suffers. His depression also darkens the lives of his family, his friends, virtually everyone close to him. Getting him into treatment can send ripples of healing and hope into all of those lives.

Depression is a real illness; it is treatable; and men can have it. It takes courage to ask for help, but help can make all the difference.

"The most important thing anyone can do for a man who may have depression is to help him get to a doctor for a diagnostic evaluation and treatment."

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"John's wort, an attractive bushy, low-growing plant covered with yellow flowers in summer, has been used for centuries in many folk and herbal remedies."

Gout Glaucoma Sleep Disorders

"Alternatively, two mental health professionals may collaborate in the treatment of a person with depression; for example, a psychiatrist or other physician, such as a family doctor, may prescribe medication while a nonmedical therapist provides ongoing psychotherapy."

Autism And Sleep Disorders

"For some men, dosage reductions or acquired tolerance to the medication reduce sexual dysfunction symptoms."

Adolescent Sleep Disorder

"Do not accuse the depressed person of faking illness or of laziness, or expect him or her "to snap out of it."

Insomnia Sleep Disorder

"Two of the short term psychotherapies that research has shown to be effective for depression are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT)."