Over the weekend I had a big scare with a loved one and it was a tremendous wake up call that we all had to do something. We just thought he was getting a bit sad and grumpy in old age but a late night cry for help changed everything and spurred us into action.
It really hit home to me this issue is incredibly widespread.
According to the Black Dog Institute, over 60s males are at very high risk for depression and anxiety, and on top of this they under report depressive symptoms.
On average, one in eight men will have depression and one in five men will experience anxiety at some stage of their lives.
While women are more likely to experience anxiety and depression, men are less likely to talk about it. This increases the risk of their anxiety or depression going unrecognised and untreated.
Is it our culture where men are encouraged to be tough and independent? Where visiting doctors or complaining of feeling ill could be considered threats to their masculinity?
Perhaps it is the stage of life. In the case of older males often self-esteem is closely linked to his role as a breadwinner, when the job goes perhaps a sense of self worth is taken away?
Maybe some men don’t look after themselves health wise as well as women and this can cause problems in later life?
And perhaps it is just talking about it. Men generally feel uncomfortable talking about their emotions and feelings, but this has to change.
If you recognise symptoms it’s important to let the men in our lives know that that anxiety and depression are illnesses, not weaknesses, and effective treatments are available.
We all need to look out for the warning signs too and sometimes this can be difficult as they can also be similar as signs for ageing.
Here are some of the signs for anxiety and depression:
Symptoms of anxiety can include feelings of worry, stress, fear and impending doom that are so severe they interfere with your ability to work, maintain relationships and get a decent night’s sleep.
Physical signs of anxiety may include:
• Pounding heart
• Excessive sweating
• Choking sensations
• Dizziness and vertigo
• Shortness of breath
• Hot flushes or chills
• Insomnia and exhaustion
• Panic attacks.
Emotional signs of anxiety may include:
• Feelings of dread
• Concentration problems
• Inner tension and nervousness
• Catastrophic thinking
• Irritability or edginess
• Being overly vigilant towards danger
• Absentmindedness
• Fear of losing control.
While depression is often associated with sadness and hopelessness, it also manifests itself in fits of rage, unnecessary risk taking, and alcohol or drug abuse in men.
Physical signs of depression may include:
• Persistent pain
• Loss of energy
• Loss of sex drive
• Changes in appetite
• Lethargy or exhaustion
• Change in sleep patterns and restlessness
• Alcohol or drug abuse.
Emotional signs of depression may include:
• Feeling guilty
• Feeling angry or violent
• Losing interest in hobbies
• Feeling apathetic (indifferent or lacking interest)
• Feeling sad or nervous
• Feeling alone
• Taking unnecessary risks
• Thinking about death or suicide
If you know a loved one who shows these signs it is best to listen and be non judgmental and encourage them to seek support from a doctor / counsellor. There are many wonderful groups to call upon such as Lifeline (13 11 14), Beyondblue (1300 22 4636) or Mensline (1300 78 99 78).
Another wonderful organisation that understands the importance of men coming together for a common purpose and to encourage conversation is Mens Shed. They are not for profit and have many free services available to the community and it looks like a whole lot of fun too with woodwork and other activities that give back to the community.
Those who are suffering need to know that anxiety and depression in men is incredibly common and treatable. It is not a weakness, taking action may not be as hard as you think, and with the right treatment recovery is very possible.
Have you helped someone through anxiety or depression?