Men can have depression, too. It just might not look like the depression a woman experiences. For example, men often feel excessively tired, irritable, and angry, instead of being sad.
Although depression occurs more often in women than in men, the number of men who die by suicide is four times that of the number of women. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs and get help before it’s too late.
Common symptoms for all genders may include:
- Feeling tearful, low, guilty, sad, or empty
- Losing enjoyment in pleasurable activities
- Appetite or weight changes
- Too little or too much sleep
- Feeling restless or agitated
- Having trouble concentrating
However, depression in men may look different:
- Increased anger, frustration, aggression, or irritability
- Headaches; tightness in the chest; joint, limb, or back pain; or digestive problems
- Drinking more or taking drugs
- Avoiding family or social situations
- Working obsessively without taking breaks
- Becoming more controlling or abusive in relationships
- Engaging in risk-taking behavior, such as gambling or unsafe sex
- Less interest in sex / trouble with sexual performance
- Thoughts of suicide / attempting suicide
DEPRESSION IS TREATABLE
Left untreated, symptoms are likely to get worse, not better. For some, depression can lead to suicide, so it’s vital to get help as soon as possible. Your benefits provide options for confidential, professional care.
- A medical doctor is a good place to start. They can rule out any physical causes and prescribe medication, if appropriate.
- Any qualified behavioral health provider, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed therapist, is covered by your Health Plan. A few sessions may be all you need to start feeling like yourself again. Get help choosing the right one for you: log in to your account at Regence.com or call the number on the back of your member ID card.
- Schedule a virtual visit (by phone or online video chat). Go to MDLIVE.com/regence-or, download the app on your smartphone, or call 1 (888) 725-3097. There’s no cost to you.
988 IS THE NEW LIFELINE
Dial or text 988 to reach the Suicide Prevention Lifeline if you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide. Reaching out may save a life—studies show that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful—after speaking with a Lifeline counselor.
Now there are three ways to reach the Lifeline’s 24/7, free and confidential support:
- Dial or text 988.
- Call 1 (800) 273-8255 (TALK), the original Lifeline number.
- Chat on the Lifeline website at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.