This Movember, we’re highlighting men’s mental health and how depression counselling in Vancouver can help. Though we’ve made significant strides in bringing depression to light, it may still affect men in ways that go unnoticed. We’ll discuss how depression affects men, the signs and symptoms, and how Clearheart counselling in Vancouver can help.
What does depression in men look like?
It’s often thought that men are more inclined to bottle up feelings. This societal expectation of masculinity can lead to men hiding their depression behind a mask of bravado. Depression in men may present differently than in women at times. Some symptoms may include irritability, anger, substance abuse, risky behaviour (reckless driving, gambling), or escapist behaviour (excessive working or sports) (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2023). Unfortunately, these symptoms may be dismissed as stress when there may in fact be an underlying problem.
Like women, other signs of depression in men may be withdrawal from social situations and activities they used to enjoy. Depression can also manifest as physical symptoms especially when we internalize. Some of these symptoms include headaches, digestive issues, sleep, and appetite disturbances (Wise et al., 2007).
Clearheart depression counselling in Vancouver can help men identify and manage symptoms, while also teaching healthy ways to cope and work through depression.
How depression counselling in Vancouver can help
Depression counselling in Vancouver at Clearheart is a valuable resource for people experiencing these symptoms. Getting help is the first step to understanding and addressing the emotional and physical aspects of depression. Clearheart registered clinical counsellors work with people to help them identify the underlying causes of their depression which may be due to genetics, past trauma, or current life stressors. With guidance, clients can gain insight into their emotions and thoughts which is a key component for healing.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be an effective modality for depression. CBT helps individuals identify and change the distorted thought patterns that may contribute to their condition. For men who have trouble expressing themselves, this can be especially helpful in developing healthier coping strategies and improving their mental health over time. By reframing negative thought patterns, the individual can develop a more positive relationship with themselves (Holland & Nave, 2022).
Individual counselling provides a safe space for men to express themselves without fear of being judged or stigmatized. By providing a confidential space, depression counselling in Vancouver can help men feel heard, seen, and supported as they work through their mental health.
Book counselling this Movember!
Breaking the stigma and asking for help
Despite all the progress we’ve made in recent years, the stigma around mental health in men is still a barrier to seeking help. The “man up” mentality often means that men don’t talk about their feelings and depression may go untreated. Movember is a reminder that it’s okay to talk about mental health and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Depression counselling in Vancouver can help men break through these barriers and work through their feelings in a healthy way. By prioritizing mental health and seeking depression therapy in Vancouver, men can get the support they need to manage depression, improve their quality of life, and live healthier.
Key takeaway this Movember
Depression is a mental health condition that can be addressed, and men need to recognize the signs and symptoms early. This Movember, as we focus on men’s mental health, we need to understand how depression shows up and how it impacts the everyday. Depression counselling in Vancouver is a helpful approach to healing by giving individuals the tools to help manage their emotions, cope with challenges, and live healthier, more fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, don’t wait to get support.
Book your counselling appointment now!
References:
Holland, K., & Nave, K. (2022, April 27). Cognitive behavioral therapy for depression: How does it work? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/cognitive-behavioral-therapy
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023, February 24). Male depression: Understanding the issues. Mayo Clinic.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/male-depression/art-20046216
Wise, T. N., Fishbain, D. A., & Holder-Perkins, V. (2007). Painful physical symptoms in depression: A clinical challenge. Pain Medicine, 8(suppl_2), S75–S82. https://academic.oup.com/painmedicine/article/8/suppl_2/S75/1849574?login=false