Men - Can we talk about depression and anxiety?
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Suicide is the biggest cause of death for men under 35. That might be just words to some, but to me it’s flesh and blood. I remember hearing my uncle took his own life. I was 10. After college I found the body of a housemate. He had shot himself.
Netdoctor reports the lifetime rate of depression is 12% in women and 8% in men. My gut tells me this difference is due to fewer men seeking help.
Depression and anxiety can be more difficult to diagnose in men. We don't tend to complain about the typical symptoms. Often it’s the physical symptoms that finally gets us to visit the doctor.
Or maybe our partners “encourage” us and eventually we give in. That’s what happened in my case. I’m not sure when it started, but I do know about a year ago I was struggling with regular, persistent anxiety and some mild, occasional feelings of depression.
I’ve now been on a small daily dose of anti-anxiety meds for four months and it’s made a huge difference. I try to stay active. Depression and anxiety hate a moving target. Daily meditation also helps. I even use a little mood journal app as per my psychologist’s recommendation.
Men really don’t talk about this enough. If you’re struggling, speak to your GP. You won’t be sorry. Or call SADAG for free, confidential counseling on 011 783 1474.
Depression and anxiety can be more difficult to diagnose in men. We don't tend to complain about the typical symptoms. Often it’s the physical symptoms that finally gets us to visit the doctor.
Or maybe our partners “encourage” us and eventually we give in. That’s what happened in my case. I’m not sure when it started, but I do know about a year ago I was struggling with regular, persistent anxiety and some mild, occasional feelings of depression.
I’ve now been on a small daily dose of anti-anxiety meds for four months and it’s made a huge difference. I try to stay active. Depression and anxiety hate a moving target. Daily meditation also helps. I even use a little mood journal app as per my psychologist’s recommendation.
Men really don’t talk about this enough. If you’re struggling, speak to your GP. You won’t be sorry. Or call SADAG for free, confidential counseling on 011 783 1474.