A post by @TellYourSonThis has started a discussion among adults online. Is there a double-standard for men when it comes to depression?
A Twitter post by @TellYourSonThis has the internet in a deep discussion about expectations of men in society and male depression.
Men have a lot on their shoulders
Kids rely on men
Women rely on men
Who do men have to rely on?
Themselves.
This is why men need friends
Being an isolated pillar of strength can wear on the best of men
And this is why so many men kill themselves
Look out for your brothers
The replies to this post (below) are polarized. Some think men need to "man up"... while others feel that men don't get the credit that they deserve.
As it turns out, depression in men and new fathers can occur during and after the birth of a new child.
Men and women both experience depression but it turns out, their symptoms can be very different. Also, most men feel that they don't have access to the sort of services that their counterparts do. There are a lot of men and "sad dads" out there who refuse to see a doctor regarding their mental health. Men who are depressed sometimes come off as angry or aggressive instead of sad. Their families, friends, and even doctors may not always recognize it as depression symptoms.
Is there a stigma out there that prevents men from acknowledging that there's an issue?
Yes, men get postpartum depression, too. Unfortunately, most men will usually hide their feelings from their spouses, to avoid looking "weak." These kinds of things can have a long-term effect on marriage, children, and friends if left untreated or recognized. Some men will simply turn to drugs or alcohol in order to cope with their emotional symptoms.
Fathers need depression screenings, too.
Traditional attitudes regarding masculinity and fatherhood have led most men to simply hide their feelings and keep them inside. Many men are usually taught to "shut up and keep it moving" when faced with adversity.
What causes depression in men?
Scientists and researchers believe that there are a few things that can cause depression, anger, irritability, aggressiveness, and loss of libido in men:
- changes in relationships
- lack of sleep
- lack of social support
- expectations
- low-self esteem
The good news, male friends are typically the first to notice any symptoms of depression in men. So if you have a friend who's showing signs of depression, get him some help.
SAMHSA’s National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.