Signs of Depression in Men, Risk Factors, Treatment & Practical Tips

Depression doesn’t always look the same in everyone, and in men, it often shows up in ways that are easy to overlook. While society sometimes expects men to “tough it out,” the reality is that men suffer from depression too, and often in silence. Recognizing the signs of depression in men is essential to improving mental health outcomes and ensuring that more men get the support they need.

In this guide, we’ll explore the symptoms of depression in men. We’ll also look at the risk factors and treatment options for men’s depression, along with actionable tips to help yourself or someone you care about take that first step toward recovery.

Is Depression More Common in Males or Females? What Are the Signs of Depression in Men?

Are men or women more likely to be depressed? Are male depression symptoms different than those of women? Statistically, women are diagnosed with depression more often than men. However, this doesn’t mean men experience it less—it often just goes unrecognized or undiagnosed. 

What are the signs of male depression compared to women? A depressed man may express depressive symptoms differently, such as through anger, substance use, or physical complaints, rather than sadness or crying. As a result, many men with depression are missed by traditional screening methods.

How Common Is Depression in Men?

Men and depression statistics show that the condition affects millions of men every year. The symptoms of depression in men often remain hidden behind social pressure to appear strong or self-reliant. According to the CDC, men in the U.S. die by suicide at nearly four times the rate of women, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and better access to mental health support. 

Are men more likely to be depressed than women? This is hard to answer, as depressed men often underreport their symptoms or mask them with overwork, risky behavior, or withdrawal.

Recognizing Signs of Depression in Men: 7 Key Symptoms

What does depression look like in men? Understanding depression signs in men starts with recognizing that many symptoms go beyond just sadness. Often, men display signs that are misread as personality flaws, stress, or just “bad moods.” Here’s what to look for:

1. Irritability, Anger, or Aggression

One sign of depression in men is that instead of appearing sad, a man with depression may be easily irritated, short-tempered, or hostile. This anger may stem from internal frustration, helplessness, or feeling emotionally out of control. It’s not uncommon for arguments to escalate quickly or for a man to seem “on edge” more often than not.

2. Withdrawal or Isolation

Depressed men often pull away from their social circles and loved ones. This isn’t always about being antisocial—it’s often due to shame, exhaustion, or the belief that no one understands what they’re going through. Missing calls, skipping family events, or spending more time alone can all be warning signs.

3. Risk-Taking or Reckless Behavior

To escape emotional pain, some men may turn to thrill-seeking behaviors. This could include reckless driving, unsafe sex, excessive gambling, or impulsive spending. These actions may serve as a temporary distraction, but they often deepen emotional instability.

4. Physical Symptoms With No Clear Cause

Men are more likely to report physical symptoms of depression, such as unexplained headaches, muscle tension, digestive issues, or chronic fatigue. These symptoms often don’t improve with typical treatment and may point to an underlying mood disorder.

5. Substance Misuse

Alcohol or drug use is sometimes used as a form of self-medication. If a man is drinking more than usual, misusing prescription medications, or using any substance to “take the edge off,” it could be an attempt to numb the emotional pain of untreated depression.

6. Loss of Interest or Enjoyment

Hobbies and relationships that once felt rewarding may now feel meaningless. You may notice a formerly enthusiastic man stop playing music, cancel sports commitments, or disengage from family routines. This lack of joy—called anhedonia—is a major sign of depression.

7. Sleep Disruptions

Sleep problems are very common in depression and can happen with or without anxiety. Some people experience insomnia—trouble falling or staying asleep—while others may sleep excessively. 

For many, racing thoughts or a restless mind can keep them awake, but even without anxiety, depression can disrupt the body’s natural sleep rhythms. The result is often waking up exhausted, no matter how much time was spent in bed.

Risk Factors for Depression in Men

Not all men experience depression the same way, but certain risk factors can increase vulnerability, especially when several are present at once.

1. Social Isolation or Lack of Support

Cultural norms often discourage men from forming emotionally vulnerable relationships. Without trusted people to confide in, emotional distress may go unprocessed, leading to loneliness and emotional shutdown.

2. Pressure to Meet Expectations

Many men face unspoken pressure to be providers, protectors, or the “strong one” in their families. When life challenges (job loss, divorce, illness) undermine this identity, it can trigger feelings of failure or worthlessness.

3. History of Trauma or Abuse

Early childhood trauma, bullying, or unresolved abuse can resurface later as depression. Men may bury these experiences or minimize their impact, making it harder to recognize the connection to current struggles.

4. Chronic Health Issues

Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain, or even hormonal changes can increase the risk of depression. These illnesses can restrict independence and quality of life, both of which impact mental health.

5. Substance Use Disorders

Substance use not only worsens depression but also masks it. Over time, the brain becomes chemically dependent, lowering natural dopamine levels and reinforcing a cycle of emotional numbness and avoidance.

Depression in Older Men

Depression in men over 40 and especially over 50 often goes undiagnosed. What are the signs of depression in men over 40? A depressed older man may appear more irritable than sad, or may complain about aches and pains without mentioning emotional suffering. 

Retirement, isolation, the loss of a partner, or deteriorating health can all contribute to depression in older adults. It’s important not to dismiss these signs as “just aging”—they could be symptoms of severe depression in males.

Male Depression Treatment

Male depression treatment can be highly effective, especially when it’s personalized. For example, exercise and depression studies show regular physical activity can reduce symptoms.

Common treatment options include:

• Therapy (CBT, talk therapy, or group therapy)
• Medication, such as SSRIs or alternatives like Wellbutrin
• Lifestyle interventions, including sleep, exercise, and nutrition
• Mindfulness or stress-reduction practices
• Support groups, both in-person and online

Many men benefit from a combination of treatments. The first step is getting an accurate diagnosis and developing a plan with a mental health professional.

How to Help Men With Depression

Helping a man who may be struggling with depression requires a balance of empathy, patience, and persistence. Whether it’s dealing with depression in young men or depression in men over 50, here’s how you can give effective support:

1. Validate His Experience

Rather than trying to “fix” the situation, start by validating his feelings. Avoid saying “just cheer up” or “it could be worse.” Instead, try, “That sounds really hard. I’m here for you.”

2. Encourage Professional Help—Without Pressure

Men may resist therapy due to stigma, fear, or unfamiliarity. Offer to help find a provider, accompany him to appointments, or even explore online therapy options together. Make it feel like a team effort, not a demand.

3. Suggest Lifestyle Anchors

Gently encourage small habits, such as going for a walk, getting sunlight, eating regular meals, or limiting alcohol consumption. These changes may seem minor, but they create structure and can reduce symptoms over time.

4. Be Consistently Present

Even if he isolates or doesn’t open up, keep showing up. Send a message, drop off coffee, or invite him to low-pressure activities. Your consistent support sends the message that he’s not alone—even if he isn’t ready to talk yet.

5. Know the Warning Signs of Crisis

If you notice talk of hopelessness, withdrawal from activities, or signs of suicidal thoughts (e.g., giving away possessions, saying “everyone would be better off without me”), seek help immediately.

• If someone is in imminent danger, call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency department right away.
• In the U.S., you can also call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
• You can text HELLO to 741741 to reach a trained counselor at the Crisis Text Line.
• If you’re outside the U.S., visit befrienders.org to find international crisis hotlines.

Need Support? Take the First Step Toward Feeling Better

If you or a man in your life may be struggling with depression, the first step is understanding what’s going on, and help is available. 

Brightside offers a free, evidence-based depression test to help assess symptoms and connect you to expert care. We’re here to help, whether you’re unsure about what you’re feeling or ready to explore treatment options, such as starting Wellbutrin for depression or therapy.

Take the free Brightside depression test and start your path toward clarity, relief, and recovery.

Symptoms of Depression in Men: Key Takeaways

Depression in men can look different from that in women, often showing up as irritability, isolation, physical complaints, or risky behavior. Many men go undiagnosed due to stigma or misinterpretation of symptoms. 

Recognizing the signs, understanding the risk factors, and offering support can help men with depression get the care they need and improve their quality of life.

FAQs

Are men more likely to be depressed than women?

Statistically, women are more likely to be diagnosed with depression, but men are less likely to seek help and more likely to suffer in silence.

This underreporting can make male depression appear less common than it truly is, often leading to underdiagnosis and higher suicide rates in men.

Why is it difficult to diagnose depression in men?

Men often mask depression with anger, irritability, workaholism, or substance use instead of expressing sadness.

Cultural norms discourage emotional openness, leading to misdiagnosis or missed signs. This makes it harder for both professionals and loved ones to recognize when a man is truly struggling with depression.

At what age does depression usually start in men?

Depression in men often begins in late teens to early 20s, though it can develop at any age.

Stressful life transitions, relationship challenges, and career pressures in early adulthood frequently trigger symptoms. Later-life events—like divorce or health decline—can also lead to new-onset depression.

What causes depression in men?

Depression in men can be caused by a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors, including genetics, hormone imbalances, chronic stress, trauma, and life pressures.

Other triggers may include financial problems, relationship issues, job loss, or unresolved emotional pain. Substance abuse and lack of social support can worsen the condition.

What are the signs of depression in men over 40?

Men over 40 may show depression through fatigue, irritability, sleep issues, withdrawal, or reckless behavior rather than sadness.

Midlife challenges, such as career stagnation, divorce, or caring for aging parents, can intensify symptoms. Physical complaints like headaches or back pain are also common emotional outlets.

What are the signs of depression in men over 50?

Men over 50 may show signs of depression through apathy, memory problems, social isolation, low libido, or increased alcohol use.

This age group often faces major life shifts like retirement, health issues, or loss of loved ones—all of which can contribute to emotional decline and reduced life satisfaction.

What are the symptoms of severe depression in males?

Severe depression in males may include persistent sadness, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts, aggression, emotional numbness, or risky behavior.

Other signs can include extreme fatigue, trouble concentrating, drastic changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Immediate help should be sought in severe cases.

How is erectile dysfunction related to depression?

Depression can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED) by lowering libido, disrupting hormone balance, and increasing anxiety.

Additionally, antidepressant medications—especially SSRIs—can contribute to ED. The cycle of depression and ED can reinforce one another, making it crucial to treat both issues concurrently under medical supervision.

Do men get postpartum depression?

Yes, men can experience postpartum depression, especially in the first year after a child’s birth.

Hormonal changes, lack of sleep, relationship stress, and increased responsibilities can all contribute. It often presents as irritability, withdrawal, or anxiety rather than sadness, and should be taken seriously and treated early.

What happens when a depressed man goes untreated?

When left untreated, depression in men can lead to worsening mental health, substance abuse, relationship breakdowns, and even suicide.

It can also affect physical health, career performance, and family dynamics. Early intervention greatly improves outcomes, so recognizing and addressing symptoms is critical for long-term well-being.