Although it's true that men are less likely to suffer from depression than women, it's difficult to know how many men do suffer from depression, as they frequently do not seek help. Approximately 6 million men in the United States are affected by the illness.

According to NIMH, researchers have found than men experience depression differently from women and use different means to cope; for example, women may experience feelings of hopelessness, while men may feel irritable. Women may crave a listening ear, while men may withdraw socially or become violent or abusive.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Men who suffer from major depression may not talk about it — even to those closest to them. Men are less likely to admit to depression, and doctors are less likely to suspect it. At least that has been the traditional thinking. As a result, adult males are more likely to self-medicate with alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs — such as cocaine — to alleviate the symptoms of depression.

Signs of depression in men are more often masked as irritability, discouragement, anger, or drug and alcohol abuse. If estrogen and progesterone influence female behavior, testosterone is equally influential in the male. Behavior may become violent and may result in striking out at loved ones or, in the worst-case scenario, at oneself. While more women attempt suicide than men, more men are successful. In extreme cases, pent-up aggression may ultimately result in acts of homicide.

The Role of Stress

Stress plays a significant role in exacerbating physical conditions. With depression, there can be an increased incidence of heart disease and a corresponding rise in fatal heart attacks. While a man may seek treatment for the physical condition, he is unlikely to tell the doctor about his depression. This compartmentalizing can prove fatal.

Breaking through the societal barrier of stoicism is difficult. Even if a man suspects he is depressed, it's more likely that he will self-medicate — increasing consumption of alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs. He may exhibit risk-taking behaviors, spend less time at home with family, and spend more time working. The most difficult part of dealing with depression in men is convincing them to seek help.