Depression manifests differently in men than in women

(Image: Pixabay CC0) - Fewer men than women are diagnosed as having depression. One possible reason for this is that there is still a lack of awareness that this mental illness is characterised by different symptoms in men than in women. Johannes Wancata from MedUni Vienna's Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy is using the opportunity of International Men's Day to raise awareness that, among other symptoms, persistent irritability or conspicuous risk-taking behaviour in men could indicate depression and that professional help should be sought. International Men's Day is celebrated each year on 3 November as a day of action dedicated to men's health. It is only in recent years that the concept of "male depression" has been developed among mental health experts. The assumption is that, in men, the known symptoms of depression are frequently masked by other male-specific symptoms. While a low mood, loss of interest and enjoyment, reduced drive and also feelings of guilt, lowered self-esteem, pessimism, reduced alertness, suicidal thoughts or actions, insomnia and loss of appetite can indicate depression in both sexes, men are also more likely to exhibit irritability, aggression and risk-taking or addictive behaviours.