The Importance of Therapy for Men with Depression

Therapy plays a crucial role in treating chronic depression in men, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of the illness. Chronic depression, often referred to as dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder (PDD), is characterized by long-term, underlying depression symptoms with fluctuating symptom intensity that lasts for years. It can be particularly challenging to treat due to its persistent nature and the unique ways men often experience and report symptoms. This blog post begins to note the importance of therapy for men with depression

Addressing Gender-Specific Symptoms and Barriers

• Atypical Presentation – men with chronic depression often exhibit symptoms that differ from the more commonly recognized signs of depression. These can include irritability, anger, risk-taking behaviors, substance abuse, and withdrawal from social activities. Therapy helps men not only identify these symptoms and understand how they relate to their depression but also works to change how men respond to these symptoms.
• Stigma and Masculinity – many men face societal pressures to conform to traditional notions of masculinity, which can discourage them from seeking help or expressing vulnerability. Therapy provides a safe space to explore these issues and challenges the stigma associated with mental health treatment.

Treatments for Depression

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective therapeutic approaches for treating chronic depression. It helps men recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to depression symptoms. Over time, CBT can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms and increase one’s functioning in life. One key component CBT therapy is behavioral activation. Essentially, we are trying to initiate and maintain positive momentum in life by completing smaller, simpler tasks.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful form of psychotherapy that aims to heal nervous system dysfunction through bilateral movements, i.e. tapping or eye movements. Through this healing process, depression symptoms may alleviate as past stressful experiences are integrated.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is related to CBT yet has more of a present-moment and experiential focus. ACT helps to build awareness around negative thought patterns, learn to unhook from problematic behaviors and thoughts, and to pursue values despite stress/symptoms.

Alternative Treatments for Depression

• Mindfulness – is typically a studied and daily practice that can help to regulate the nervous system, increase self-regulation skills, and being about increased mind-body awareness.
• Support Groups – are another way for men to build a sense of community, identity, and foster healthier levels of self-esteem.
• Psychiatric Medications – your doctor may suggest the addition of a psychiatric medication to help alleviate depressive symptoms.
• Exercise – is a fabulous way to not just to increase overall strength and endurance but also can help regulate a man’s mood and emotions. Exercise can also help to increase self-esteem and self-confidence in the long-term.

Depression Treatment for Men Near Me

It may be difficult to start the process of asking for help. We’ve been there too and have supported others in this exact process. If you are tired of feeling ‘stuck’ in life, lack the motivation to change your present situation, and struggle with self-esteem issues, therapy may be the place to start. Give us a call at 720.295.6703 or submit a form online to start the therapy process. We look forward to hearing from you!