Male depression is a serious medical condition but many men try to ignore it and even refuse treatment. While it seems that fewer men are depressed as compared to women, that assumption may not be entirely true. Since this condition in men is not as widely recognized, it often goes undiagnosed. One reason for this is the men’s reluctance to discuss the symptoms of the condition. Men are always not that open when it comes to talking about symptoms, emotions and feelings. They may have difficulties discussing these things with their families and friends let alone with a doctor.

Some men have been raised with emphasis on independence, competitiveness, self-control and emotional stoicism. Therefore, they may see a mental illness as a threat to their masculinity. Men can also resist treatment because they may be worried that the stigma may damage their career as well as make them lose respect among family members and friends.

Some signs and symptoms of male depression include violent or abusive behavior as well as inappropriate rage. Others are escapists behaviors such as over involvement in things such as sports or even work. Alcohol or substance abuse as well as thoughts of suicide are other symptoms.

Although suicidal attempts are more common in women than in men, men are more likely to complete suicide. This is because men use more lethal methods such as guns. As compared to women, men also act faster on suicidal thoughts. They also show fewer warning signs for example talk of suicide.