Traditional studies on the epidemiology of depression have indicated this disorder is more prominent in women than in men. The National Survey Comorbidity Replication Study (2013), however, revealed men may experience different symptoms of depression than those reported by women. Men reported higher rates of anger and aggression, as well as risk-taking and substance abuse behaviors. When these symptoms are taken into account, the rates of depression in males and females are not significantly different.
Current estimates indicate approximately 9% of males have daily feelings of depression or anxiety. Only one in three of those males, however, take medication, and only one in four speak to a mental health professional. While women are more likely than men to attempt suicide, men are more likely to succeed with a rate of four times that of women. White men over the age of 85 have the highest rate of suicide than any other demographic group in the U.S. (51 out of 100,000).
The take-home messages:
● Traditional measures of depression may not reflect depression in men.
● Men are less likely than women to pursue treatment for depression.
● Men are more likely to be successful in suicide attempts than women.
● White males over the age of 85 have the highest rate of suicide in the U.S.
For further information, visit the following sites:
- http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/men-and-depression/depression-in-men.shtml
- http://archpsyc.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1733742
- http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db206.pdf
Contributor:
Julie T. Steck, Ph.D., HSPP
CRG/Children’s Resource Group
