Depression affects people of all different ages, sexes, and backgrounds. So those who have never struggled with it before often assume that the symptoms of the mental health disorder must be the same for everyone. Unfortunately, this misinformation leads to many people not getting the help that they need in time. One good example of this can be seen by taking a look at how depression causes men to have a unique set of symptoms that their family members and friends often overlook.
Symptoms of Depression in Men.
Just as no two men are the same, neither are the symptoms of depression two men may experience. Depression can take on many forms and impacts everyone differently. However, some symptoms of depression in men are more common than others. Here are some of the most common symptoms of depression in men to keep an eye out for.
Here are some of the most common symptoms of depression in men:
- Decrease in energy.
- Loss of desire to do activities he once loved.
- Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, and/or worthlessness.
- Increased irritability.
- Reckless behavior.
- Increased substance use.
Causes of Depression in Men
Depression is mainly caused by a person having a chemical imbalance in their brain, such as a drop in their serotonin level. However, a man can also become depressed because he is overwhelmed with stress or relationship problems. The loss of a loved one can cause it too.
Treatments of Depression in Men
Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to treat depression in men. Every patient is different and no two are affected by depression the same way. However, with the help of a licensed professional to find the treatment that works best for each patient, even the most severe cases of depression can be treated.
Here are the types of treatment for depression offered by our team of licensed professionals here at MidValley Healthcare.
Medications
Depression can be debilitating. Medication therapy with antidepressants is a popular treatment choice for those with depression. Antidepressants may not cure depression, but they can reduce your symptoms. When paired with other types of therapy such as counseling, group therapy, or TMS therapy recovery from depression is possible.
Antidepressants relieve depression by affecting certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are all neurotransmitters associated with depression. The effects of each type (class) of antidepressants vary slightly. Therefore, it may take trying a few different ones before the correct one for you is determined.
Psychotherapies
Psychotherapy, also referred to as “talk therapy” or “counseling”, is the treatment of a mental disorder by psychological rather than medical means. At MidValley Healthcare we pair counseling with other types of therapy such as group therapy, or/and TMS therapy when treating depression. Adding psychotherapy to a patient’s treatment plan not only adds to their support network but it also gives patients the ability to problem solve in a safe, neutral, non-judgmental environment. In our counseling sessions, patients develop skills such as Mindfulness and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT).
Psychoeducational therapies refer to the process of teaching people the skills needed to break the cycles of mental health or addiction. Our Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) offer several different types of psychoeducational therapies such as Coping, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). You never have too much support in your journey to recovery.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This non-drug treatment is FDA approved for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder. TMS is typically used when other depression treatments haven't been effective.
Here are some important things to know about TMS:
- TMS has no side effects.
- Uses precisely targeted magnetic pulses similar to those used in and MRI.
- Stimulates key areas of the brain that are underactive in patients with depression.
- TMS is not ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy).
- Over 1 million patients have been treated with TMS therapy.
- 1 out of 2 showed significant improvement.
- 1 out of 3 patients was symptom-free.
- TMS is covered by most insurance.
- It is conducted locally in the doctor's office.
If you suspect that you or a loved one might need help with depression, our team of licensed professionals here at MidValley Healthcare is here to help. We work with clients on an individual basis to achieve a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to make an appointment.