Why is depression missed in men?

Men are socialized to suppress emotional expression and often present with anger, substance use, or irritability rather than reporting sadness.

What are warning signs of depression in men?

Irritability, anger, aggression, increased drinking, workaholism, isolation, risk-taking behavior, and loss of interest in hobbies are common presentations.

Do men get screened for depression?

Underdiagnosis is common because men visit doctors less frequently and may not volunteer emotional symptoms, and clinicians may miss atypical presentations.

Is male depression treatable?

Yes. Men respond well to therapy and medication when diagnosed. Addressing shame and normalizing help-seeking improves treatment engagement.

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Men's Depression: Why It's Often Missed and Overlooked

Peter Kolomiets

|March 22, 2026|Updated Apr 13, 2026|6 min

Men's Depression: Why It's Often Missed and Overlooked

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References

Sher L (2009). Depression in Men: Symptom Expression and Help-Seeking
Cyranowski JM, Frank E, Young E, Shear MK (2000). Gender Differences in Depression: Depression in Men