It was about two years ago when the world learned that Robin Williams had ended his life. Early reports on social media that this beloved comic had died on August 11, 2014 were met with skepticism, but by the next morning we all knew that it was true. It started a dialogue that people hoped would change how suicide, depression and mental illness were managed, but not much has changed over the last few months. There still seems to be a stigma, especially for men, in getting help for depression, addiction, anxiety and other mental illnesses. Darryl “DMC” McDaniels recently published his second memoir, “Ten Ways Not to Commit Suicide,” in hopes of raising awareness of mental health issues. McDaniels treated his depression over trying to find his birth mother with alcohol, which led to even more problems. It’s important to seek professional help when you’re experiencing depression. It’s just like any medical condition, an infection, cancer or high blood pressure. There’s no shame or weakness in admitting that you need help.
Stress Triggers Depression
Depression doesn’t just come on one morning. Generally, a person who becomes depressed will have experienced stress in the preceding months and will not have dealt with that stress effectively. Some stressful events that can trigger depression:
- Moving into a new community
- A relationship change, such as a marriage, divorce or death
- Retirement
- Relationship problems
- Financial problems
- A new baby
- Quitting smoking
- Health problems
Not all of these events are what might be considered negative. A new baby is a probably a welcome addition to the family, but men and women can both experience stress during this time. And not everyone who moves or gets divorced will experience depression. Often, it’s in how you manage your stress that determines whether you move through it or get stuck in depression, but researchers have also found that genes, brain chemistry and hormones all play a part as well.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression becomes a problem when a person cannot effectively manage their day-to-day life. It’s normal to have days when you don’t feel 100 percent. When you experience loss, whether it’s a job or relationship, there should be a time of grieving. Depression is when these prolonged feelings interfere with daily activities. Although most of us think of depression as a sadness, there are a number of other symptoms that you might experience. A change in sleep habits or activity levels is a good indicator that you’re not managing your stress well. You might feel fatigued or have a lack of concentration. Many people feel unworthy or guilty when they’re depressed. Men, who typically deny feelings of sadness or hopelessness, often experience other behaviors when they’re depressed. Aggressiveness or reckless behavior can mask feelings of depression.
Help Is Available
Although there are some online self-tests you can take to screen yourself for depression, only a mental health professional can truly diagnose your symptoms. The National Institute of Mental Health has a page on its website dedicated to men and depression. It offers information and resources where men can find help in their own community. Most cities have a community mental health center with therapists available, and if you have health insurance, you should always check with the company to know and understand your benefits.
There’s no reason to suffer from depression or any mental illness. Talk to a mental health professional or your doctor about your symptoms. Untreated depression will not get better. You can’t simply push through and expect to feel better in the morning. You might need medication to manage your depression. Talk therapy can also be very effective in treating depression. Help is available, but you have to reach out.