Today is RUOK Day.

Researchers estimate that millions of men suffer from depression each year. While this number is larger in women, men are almost four times more likely to suffer the ultimate consequence of their depression: suicide.

Even though women attempt more suicides each year, men are more successful, in part because the methods employed by men are more lethal.

Sadly, the above statistics make one point clear: Depression in men is different from women. The question is, why?

Looking back to those barriers introduced above, similarities are seen when it comes to depression. Men are simply not seeking proper treatment.

The issue is confounded because men’s depressive symptoms are not being readily recognised by physicians and by men themselves.

Men are more willing to acknowledge physical symptoms – fatigue, headaches, irritability, loss of interest in work, lowered sexual drive, and sleep disturbances – rather than emotional feelings of sadness, worthlessness, hopelessness, and excessive guilt.

It is these physical symptoms, and other signs such as alcohol or drug dependence, that require greater recognition by men as possibly pointing toward an underlying illness of depression.

If you are among the millions of men being plagued by the symptoms described above, it is important to seek help promptly, and there are numerous resources readily available online.

While the cause of your depression may not be immediately clear, on account of the numerous factors at potential blame – specific distressing life events, biochemical imbalances in the brain or certain psychological factors – what is clear is that you’re not alone and should never feel ashamed.

Depression is common, and most cases are entirely treatable.

For further info contact Beyond Blue