"If you think you may be depressed or know someone who is, don't lose hope."

"Antianxiety drugs or sedatives are not antidepressants but they are sometimes prescribed along with antidepressants; however, they are not effective when taken alone for a depressive disorder."

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 Or, he may seem isolated, withdrawn, and no longer interested in the people or activities he used to enjoy.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.

"Minor depression is a common disorder that may impair a person's functioning and quality of life and is a serious risk factor for major depression."

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"Genetics research indicates that risk for depression results from the influence of multiple genes acting together with environmental or other nongenetic factors."

Stress Suppress Hiv Antibody

"Depression can strike anyone regardless of age, ethnic background, socioeconomic status, or gender; however, large scale research studies have found that depression is about twice as common in women as in men."

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"Researchers estimate that at least six million men in the United States suffer from a depressive disorder every year."

Stress Information

"Medication is usually the second choice after a comprehensive and competent trial of psychotherapy."

Stress Sickness

"The interaction of tyramine with MAOIs can bring on a hypertensive crisis, a sharp increase in blood pressure that can lead to a stroke."