Guy Wisdom
Defense Mechanism Reaction formation
What it is Acting exactly opposite to the way one feels
For example Smothering a person with love when you actually hate his/her guts
Defense Mechanism Regression
What it is Resorting to an earlier stage of life or behaviors
For example Temper tantrums
Defense Mechanism Repression
What it is Threatening thoughts, feelings, and desires are kept from becoming conscious
For example Much like selective amnesia or forgetting but happens unconsciously
Defense Mechanism Hypochondriasis
What it is Exaggerating or overemphasizing an illness
For example Complaints of pain, somatic illness
Defense Mechanism Controlling
What it is Attempting to manage or regulate events or objects in the environment to minimize anxiety
For example Making home your own private Cuba and you doing a Fidel Castro
So, What Causes Male Depression?
As with most disorders, there is no simple answer. However, there have been some studies linking the occurrence to neurobiology. In the same manner that hormones and the reproductive cycle are connected with depression in females, some researchers conjecture that testoste-rone deficiency may bring on fatigue, lack of initiative and sexual difficulties–all of which may contribute to male depression.
An electronic publication of the United States National Institute of Mental Health on "Men and Depression" mentions some interesting findings of focus group discussions conducted by the NIMH to investigate depression awareness:
"...men described their own symptoms of depression without realizing that they were depressed. Notably, many were unaware that "physical" symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain, can be associated with depression. In addition, they expressed concern about seeing a mental health professional or going to a mental health clinic, thinking that people would find out and that this might have a negative impact on their job security, promotion potential, or health insurance benefits. They feared that being labeled with a diagnosis of mental illness would cost them the respect of their family and friends, or their standing in the community."
Differences may not be restricted to the symptoms alone but also to the coping strategies undertaken. There's a tendency for males to think that the symptoms can be overcome through sheer willpower or strength of character. As mentioned above, many feel that there is a stigma surrounding depression and thus, are reluctant to admit they need help. Instead, they may turn to substances for relief; may become irritable, angry or even violent. Some may devote themselves completely to their professions, drowning their sorrows in work. Others may engage in impulsive and self-defeating behaviors.
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Men's Health Philippines - October 2005 Issue
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Sad on the saddle
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