Module 7 Discussion: Depression and Gender

An infographic from the National Institute of Mental Health, discussing depression in men. The text reads "Men and women both experience depression but their symptoms can be very different. Because men who are depressed may appear to be angry or aggressive instead of sad, their families, friends, and even their doctors may not always recognize the anger or aggression as depression symptoms. In addition, men are less likely than women to recognize, talk about, and seek treatment for depression. Yet depression affects a large number of men." Below is a quote from a firefighter named Jimmy, who states: "my daily routine was shot. I didn't have the energy to do anything. I got up because the dog had to be walked and my wife needed to go to work. The day would go by and I didn't know where it went. I wanted to get back to normal. I just wanted to be myself again".

Men and Depression: National Institute of Mental Health

Both men and women get depression, but their willingness to talk about their feelings may be very different. This is one of the reasons that depression symptoms for men and women may be different as well.

STEP 1: Visit either the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/index.shtml and search for a news article that addresses depression in men OR search for a research article on men and depression (such as those found by visiting the Journal of Research of NIST).

STEP 2: Summarize the selected article in at least 250 words and post your summary, specifically explaining what the article mentions and any signs and symptoms specific to men. What are three specific ways you could support a male family member or friend to recognize his symptoms and seek professional treatment? Include a link to the actual article in your response, as well as the APA citation.

STEP 3: Respond in two separate posts to two classmates (in at least 75 words). Explicitly address their responses and try to extend or redirect their points in a substantive, knowledge-demonstrating way.