It is estimated that 13% of men in Westchester will be affected by depression sometime in their lives. Seven percent of men will be affected this year alone.

Men are less likely to admit to depression, and doctors or family members are less likely to suspect it.  Men may deal with depression by throwing themselves into work, by turning to alcohol and/or drugs and by engaging in reckless behavior.

Four times as many men as women die by suicide in the United States.  Research indicates that suicide is often associated with depression.  Men with depression therefore, are not getting help.

What can we do?

First we must provide education to help men begin to look at their symptoms and behaviors to see whether or not they may be suffering from depression.

Not everyone with a depressive disorder experiences every symptom.  The number and severity of symptoms may vary among individuals and also over time.

Men are more willing to report symptoms of fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies rather than feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or guilt.  Men are also more likely to report alcohol or drug abuse or dependence in their lifetime.   

If you notice that someone close to you is suffering from depression you should talk to them in a supportive manner about what changes you've seen.  Together you can decide on a plan to call a physician for a referral for treatment.

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