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Early Warning Signs: Recognizing Depression and Anxiety in Men This Father’s Day
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With Father’s Day 2025 approaching, mental health professionals are urging increased awareness of depression and anxiety symptoms in men, conditions frequently overshadowed by societal expectations and demanding routines. Identifying these early warning signs is crucial for timely intervention and improved well-being.
Key Indicators of Mental Health struggles in Men
Men frequently enough prioritize responsibilities over their own well-being, leading to overlooked mental health concerns.According to Dr. Trideep Choudhury, a consultant psychiatrist at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, several key symptoms can indicate underlying depression or anxiety.
Persistent Low Mood
Experiencing a consistently low or down mood for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks is a critically important indicator of depression. This goes beyond temporary sadness and represents a sustained negative emotional state.
Disrupted Sleep Schedule
Sleep disturbances are common across various mental health conditions. This can manifest as sleeping too little (insomnia) or excessively (hypersomnia), leading to daytime drowsiness and impaired focus. A 2023 study in the *Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine* found that sleep disturbances exacerbate symptoms of both anxiety and depression [1].
Decreased Appetite
Changes in appetite, whether a significant loss or intense cravings (especially for sugary foods), can signal a mental health issue. These disruptions can lead to poor dietary choices and nutritional deficiencies.
Low Physical activity and fatigue
A noticeable decrease in physical activity, accompanied by persistent fatigue not explained by any medical condition, is a common symptom of depression. Similarly, individuals with anxiety may experience chronic tiredness even without physical exertion.
Did You Know? According to the CDC, men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues, often due to societal pressures and stigma.
Sedentary Lifestyle and Physical Symptoms
Unexplained physical symptoms like body aches and headaches are frequently associated with both depression and anxiety. these conditions frequently enough contribute to a more sedentary lifestyle, further exacerbating physical discomfort.
Difficulty with Focus and Attention
Struggling to concentrate on tasks, difficulty processing information, and increased forgetfulness can be signs of underlying mental health issues. These cognitive impairments can significantly impact daily functioning.
Individuals experiencing depression or anxiety may struggle to fulfill social, familial, and personal responsibilities due to fatigue and lack of motivation. Constant worrying and distressing thoughts associated with anxiety can also strain relationships.
Feelings of Helplessness and Hopelessness
Overwhelming feelings of helplessness,hopelessness,and worthlessness are hallmark symptoms of depression. These negative thoughts can, in severe cases, lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation.Anxiety can also erode self-esteem, particularly when individuals feel unable to meet expectations.
Avoidance Behaviors
Anxiety can lead to avoidance of places, situations, or events that trigger anxiety. Some individuals may turn to substance use as a coping mechanism. Similarly, those struggling with depression may use alcohol or other substances to numb emotional pain, which can worsen their condition over time.
Underlying Medical Conditions
It’s important to note that persistent symptoms of depression and anxiety can sometimes be rooted in underlying medical conditions, such as metabolic disorders (e.g., hypothyroidism, diabetes), autoimmune conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis), and gastrointestinal issues (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome).
Pro Tip: If you notice several of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.