Male Depression: Understanding the Issues

Although women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression as men, men still are diagnosed with and struggle with depression. Men and women may present with slight variations in depressive symptoms, and men may be less likely to admit to mood dysregulation. Brain chemistry, hormones, and life experiences may help explain some of the gender variations in depressive symptoms.

After reading “Male Depression: Understanding the Issues,” consider the question(s) below. Then “submit” your response.

Question 1

Which of the following is not identified in the article as a common sign or symptom of depression for men?

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B.
C.
D.

Which of the following is not identified in the article as a common sign or symptom of depression for men?

Question 2

Which of the following symptoms could also be associated with another disorder or mental health issue?

A.
B.
C.
D.

Question 3

What are two reasons that male depression often goes undiagnosed?

One possible answer might be that males downplay signs and symptoms and fail to recognize somatic symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and stomach problems as signs of depression.

Question 4

Research tells us that women attempt suicide more often than men, but that men are more likely to successfully complete suicide. What are some possible reasons for this difference?

One possible answer might be that men tend to use more lethal methods of suicide such as guns; men also tend to act more quickly on suicidal thoughts than women.