Depression is a man’s condition, too, new studies suggest.

Around 12 million women are diagnosed annually with depression, compared to around 6 million men.

In the past, medical experts chalked the discrepancies between the sexes up to the more complex hormonal fluctuations women experience.

New studies, however, indicate a huge proportion of American men are just as depressed as their female counterparts.

They’re just not getting diagnosed and treated.

“Male depression more often gets undiagnosed than female depression,” said Hamlet Smith of Life Strategies in Beckley. “Since men less often seek the services of health care providers, the likelihood of it being discovered decreases.”

More men than women are suffering the debilitating effects of depression in silence and not getting the help they need, experts believe.

Generally, symptoms of depression include feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, loss of interest in people and activities, and may include suicidal thoughts.

Symptoms of depression in men are more likely to include inappropriate rage, sexual acting out, alcohol or substance abuse, risky behaviors like reckless driving, escapist behaviors such as being overly involved in work or sports, and more frequent thoughts of suicide.

Men are also more likely than women to successfully commit suicide since they often choose more violent means of ending their lives, Smith said.

Rural stereotypes may play a large role in preventing men from seeking help.

“Growing up in West Virginia, I think we are taught as men to be tough, suck it up and not share our weaknesses with others,” Smith said. “There are times when it is very helpful to be able to distance the emotion from situations and deal with complex problems with an air of dispassionate aloofness.

“But this can also backfire on us when we get in the habit of suppressing our feelings over the long term.”

Because of the stereotypes, men may feel pressure to keep quiet about their problems.

Even in some Christian circles, folks have been discouraged from seeking mental health treatment, Smith noted.

“I think there is good reason to be cautious about whom you seek out as a mechanic, dentist, physician or counselor,” he sad. “You want to make sure that you get the right and the best treatment.

“Yet, being paralyzed by inaction may be even more detrimental in the long run. Seek the advice of your pastor and trusted friends, but also make a decision.”

Those who are depressed may be tempted to deny there is a problem.

“Living vicariously through the lives of sports heroes in fantasy league, staying too long at the office or watching endless hours of television may be clues of denial,” Smith said. “Substance abuse will numb the pain of a depressed mind, but not for long.

“Increasing amounts of alcohol or drugs are needed more frequently for the same feeling.”

Drug and alcohol abuse may also make the depression worse, he added.

The good news is that depression can be successfully treated.

Smith urged men to locate a mental health counselor to help identify the source of the problem.

“Some men may need to take medication while they sort out the underlying root of the problem,” he added. “If that’s what you need to do for a time, do it.

“Just do not fall into the trap that, ‘because I have taken medication and feel better, the problem is fixed.’

“Unless you deal with the root issues that brought you here, you will not be free of the depression long-term.”

He also urged men to make a point of connecting with their wives and children through family activities.

Being alone outdoors is often a great way to gain appreciation for the created world, he added.

“One of the relational casualties in depression is often how we feel toward God,” he said. “Take the time to re-establish a connection.

“Your spiritual life is every bit as important, if not more, than other parts of your life.”

Men may also need to examine their feelings about their jobs, which can be a factor in depression.

“Men, like women, need to find purpose and pleasure in their work,” Smith said. “If you are not in the career you love, take steps toward that dream job, even if they are small steps.

“Look for ways to be more content and thankful in the meantime.”

More information is available at www.lifestrat.com or 304-255-PLAN.

— E-mail: jfarrish@register-herald.com