Signs of depression in men often go under-acknowledged, misinterpreted, or dismissed altogether due to societal expectations and stigma. If you or a loved one in Georgia are experiencing depression symptoms, seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a step toward healing. At ALANA Recovery, support is available for depression and substance abuse issues. Don’t wait—reach out today to explore depression treatment options and reclaim your life.
What To Know About Men’s Depression
Depression affects millions of men every year, yet it frequently gets overlooked or misdiagnosed. Each year, over six million men in the United States struggle with depression, yet it often goes undiagnosed. Almost one in 10 men struggle with depression or anxiety, but less than half reach out for help. Tragically, men also take their own lives at a rate over four times higher than women.1
Societal pressure to “tough it out,” coupled with misconceptions about mental health, often prevents men from seeking care. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988.
Men’s depression doesn’t always look like the textbook cases you hear about. While persistent sadness is common, men often experience unique symptoms or express their struggles in different ways—frequently leaning into behaviors like substance abuse, which can mask the underlying issue.
What Are the Signs of Depression in Men?
Recognizing the signs of depression in men is essential and can be lifesaving. Depression symptoms to watch for include emotional, physical, and behavioral cues:
- Emotional symptoms – Feeling persistently sad or hopeless, easily frustrated or irritable, losing interest in things you used to enjoy, or struggling to focus and make decisions—these are experiences many of us go through.
- Physical symptoms – Feeling constantly fatigued or low on energy, experiencing changes in appetite or significant weight fluctuations, dealing with sleep disturbances such as sleeping too little or too much, and having unexplained aches and pains are all potential signs to watch for.
- Behavioral signs – Substance use as a way to self-soothe or escape from emotions, withdrawing from family and social circles, taking unnecessary risks or becoming overly controlling, and neglecting responsibilities such as missing work deadlines are all behaviors that may indicate deeper underlying issues.
If you notice any of these signs—either in yourself or someone else—it’s essential to take action. Depression is a serious condition, but with the proper support, it’s highly treatable.
How Do Men’s Experiences with Depression Differ from Others?
Depression can affect anyone, but men often face unique challenges when dealing with it. Some men might express their depression through anger or irritability, while others may show it as sadness. Differences in how symptoms appear can make it harder to recognize, allowing depression in men to go unnoticed and get worse over time. Society’s expectations around masculinity can also make it challenging for men to open up about their feelings, leading to emotional avoidance and isolation.
Traditional ideas of masculinity—like being tough, competitive, or aggressive—can take a real toll on men’s well-being. Men who stick closely to these norms are often less likely to take care of their health. Research shows they’re half as likely to go for preventive healthcare. These ideals can also lead to risky habits—like heavy drinking, smoking, and unhealthy eating—which only make things worse.2
Men often turn to these behaviors as a way to cope. While they might offer some quick relief, they can lead to more harm in the long run, making it even harder to seek help and recover.
Can Men’s Depression Co-Occur with Addiction?
Yes, depression and substance use are closely linked, particularly in men. Some turn to alcohol or drugs to manage the weight of depression, a behavior known as self-medicating. While it might feel like a temporary solution, this coping mechanism often worsens both conditions.
This intersection of addiction and mental health issues is known as a dual diagnosis. Men experiencing both conditions may use substances to numb their emotional pain, only for these same substances to chemically exacerbate symptoms of depression.
Many men in treatment for substance use disorders (SUD) also face mental health conditions like depression. While serious mental health issues are less common in men than women overall, men make up a significant share of adults in substance abuse treatment, often with co-occurring mental health challenges. This highlights the higher number of men seeking substance abuse treatment.3
How Dual Diagnosis Treatment Can Help
Dual diagnosis treatment takes a whole-person approach, addressing both addiction and the mental health challenges that often come with it, like depression. At ALANA Recovery in Georgia, we focus on supporting people who are dealing with the connection between substance use and depression.
Here are some of the key parts of dual diagnosis treatment:
- Integrated therapy – Combining evidence-based methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to address thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) – Using medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ease withdrawal symptoms and support emotional regulation
- Community support – Encouraging participation in group sessions and alumni programs to foster connectivity and understanding
When you come to ALANA Recovery, you’re not just getting treatment—you’re gaining support, understanding, and tools to help you heal. Our evidence-based therapies are tailored to what you need, and we also focus on addressing challenges like anxiety and depression that often accompany addiction. You’ll join a community of people who truly get what you’re going through, creating a space where encouragement and connection can thrive.
Even after treatment ends, we’re here for you with alumni programs to keep you moving forward. When depression and addiction are treated together, it opens the door to better long-term outcomes.
Depression Treatment
Addressing depression is more than lifting the sadness—it’s about equipping individuals to lead fulfilling, connected lives. ALANA Recovery offers compassionate depression treatment as part of mental health care. Personalized therapies like motivational interviewing and trauma therapy empower clients to explore their emotions, manage triggers, and regain control of their futures.
Not all paths to healing look the same, and at ALANA Recovery, our mental health programs reflect that. Whether through individual counseling sessions or holistic approaches, depression treatment can reignite hope and help men feel seen, understood, and supported.
Addiction Treatment
ALANA Recovery designs addiction treatment to address both physical dependence and the root causes of substance use. Our programs include intensive therapy, MAT, and aftercare plans tailored to each client’s needs. By working through addiction in a structured, supportive environment, men have the tools they need to sustain lasting recovery.
Addiction doesn’t have to define your life. Together, we can take the steps to regain control, rebuild relationships, and rediscover what inspires you.
Start Your Healing Journey with ALANA Recovery Today
Depression and addiction can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. At ALANA Recovery, our compassionate team provides guidance, encouragement, and the tailored care you need to thrive.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward healing—or even if you just have questions—don’t hesitate to call 770.759.7474 or contact our team online. Your path to a healthier, more fulfilling life starts here.
Footnotes:
- Anxiety & Depression Association of America – Men’s Mental Health
- American Psychological Association – APA issues first-ever guidelines for practice with men and boys
- SAMHSA – Addressing the Specific Behavioral Health Needs of Men – Working With Specific Populations of Men in Behavioral Health Settings