Stronger Together - Fighting Men's Depression

A Companion Resource Guide from Mind & Faith Matters

Topic: Men's Depression

Episode Summary

This episode explores the often-hidden struggle of depression in men. We unpack how depression manifests differently in men, why many remain silent, and how to take simple, meaningful steps toward healing.

During the entire month of July 2025, 100% of profits from our merch store will go to HeadsUpGuys.org, an organization focused on supporting men’s mental health through practical tools, research-based guidance, and real stories from other men.

 

Key Takeaways

1. Depression in men often goes unrecognized
According to data from HeadsUpGuys and public health agencies:

  • Only 1 in 4 men with depression seek professional help

  • Men represent 75 to 80 percent of all suicides in the U.S. and Canada

  • Suicide is the second leading cause of death for men between the ages of 15 and 44

2. Cultural pressure plays a major role
Many men are taught from a young age to avoid expressing pain or vulnerability. Phrases like “man up” or “don’t be soft” create shame around emotional honesty. Over time, this teaches men to mask what they feel or to avoid seeking help until a crisis hits.

3. Depression in men may not look like depression
Unlike the classic signs such as crying or persistent sadness, men often display externalized symptoms, as covered in the episode, which may include:

  • Irritability or anger: Short temper, low frustration tolerance, snapping at others

  • Withdrawal: Avoiding friends, family, church, or community events

  • Overworking: Throwing yourself into work or tasks to avoid emotional discomfort

  • Substance use: Using alcohol, marijuana, or other substances to numb or escape

  • Physical complaints: Headaches, digestive issues, chronic fatigue, muscle tension

  • Risky behavior: Driving fast, gambling, or making impulsive financial or relational decisions

  • Numbness or detachment: Feeling emotionally flat, even during important moments

  • Changes in sleep or appetite: Insomnia, sleeping too much, overeating, or skipping meals

These behaviors are often misunderstood or dismissed. But underneath them could be unrecognized depression. What looks like anger or laziness could actually be emotional overload.

Many men report they did not realize how much pain they were in until something forced them to stop and evaluate. A simple quiz or conversation can often bring surprising clarity.

 

Here are the classic symptoms of depression that men may experience, as well::

  • Depressed mood and/or persistent sadness: Sadness, emptiness, unrelenting negative feelings

  • Diminished interest in previously enjoyed activities: Not interested in hobbies and activities

  • Fatigue and loss of energy: Sleeping and resting doesn't make energy levels increase

  • Worthlessness, hopelessness, or excessive guilt: Feeling strong and unjustified hopelessness or guilt, like thinking that recovery is impossible or that you don't deserve love, success, or happiness (headsupguys.org) 

  • Difficulty concentrating: Tasks, thoughts, and decision-making is affected by your ability to concentrate

  • Thoughts of Suicide: From fantasizing about escaping from life and ending your pain to having a specific plan to take your life, any suicidal thoughts are a signal that you need to reach out for support

 

Reflection Questions

  • Have you felt more tired, frustrated, or detached than usual?

  • Are you staying busy to avoid slowing down and thinking about how you really feel?

  • Have you noticed any physical issues like headaches, tight muscles, or trouble sleeping without an obvious cause?

  • Are you using substances, screens, or work as ways to cope with stress?

  • Have you pulled away from people who used to matter to you?

  • If a friend described what you are going through right now, would you tell him to get support?

 

Try This: Self-Check Quiz for Men

If something in this episode hits home, take the free, private, and pressure-free mental health check-up:
HeadsUpGuys Depression Check-Up Tool

This is not a diagnosis. It is a first step toward awareness.

 

Additional Resources

From HeadsUpGuys.org:

More from Trusted Organizations:

 

Support the Cause This July (2025)

Shop purposefully and support men’s mental health at the same time.
All profits from our merch store through July will be donated to HeadsUpGuys.org.
Grab a shirt, mug, or trucker hat designed to raise awareness and spark real conversations.
Visit the Store

 

Scripture Highlight

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
Psalm 34:18

This is more than a comforting verse. It is a real promise for men walking through real pain. You do not have to get it all together for God to be near.

 

Share and Respond

  • Is it time to check in with yourself or someone you care about?

  • Could one quiet visit to HeadsUpGuys.org help you name what has felt off?

  • What if this was the month you stopped pretending everything is fine and started getting honest?

  • Who in your circle needs to hear this episode?

Let’s help one another take mental health seriously, without shame, without pressure, and without waiting for it to get worse.