How do mood disorders affect men?
Although the clinical experience of depression or bipolar disorder is the same for both men and women, generally speaking, men are less likely to seek professional help for their symptoms. Cultural expectations of masculinity can contribute to men’s unwillingness to acknowledge problems and admit needing help. In general, men have fewer social support networks then women, and are also less inclined to talk about their feelings. Thus, it is more likely socio-cultural factors, rather than biological factors, that result in a higher rate of women experiencing depression. Many men can refuse to seek treatment and their mood disorder may go undiagnosed as a result, which can lead to an increase in angry, self-destructive or self-medicating behaviour. Being able to recognise that depression and bipolar disorder are health issues, in the same way diabetes or asthma, is a key part in the decision to seek professional help. One person in five experience depression in their lifetime, and as such
