By Atlantic Reports

Social expectations that men must remain strong, independent and emotionally restrained can discourage some from acknowledging depression and seeking care, mental health specialists have warned.

They said fear of judgement could leave men concealing distress while their relationships, work and wellbeing suffer.

Prof. Taiwo Obindo, Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Jos, said cultural beliefs that equate emotional vulnerability with weakness could delay treatment.

“Men generally will suppress and hide their depression symptoms based on cultural expectations, building a psyche that men cannot be weak, making their symptoms chronic,” he said.

Obindo, who also chairs the Faculty of Psychiatry of the West African College of Physicians, Nigeria Chapter, urged society to allow men to express distress openly.

“Men can be depressed. Men can have issues, and therefore men do cry. And so expression of their emotion should not be restricted,” he said.

Recognising Changes Early

Obindo identified irritability, hopelessness, social withdrawal, disturbed sleep, appetite changes and difficulties functioning at home or work as signs that warrant attention.

He urged families and employers to notice changes such as declining self-care, withdrawal from others and reduced workplace performance, and encourage professional assessment.

The World Health Organization distinguishes depression from ordinary mood changes. A depressive episode typically involves persistent sadness, irritability or loss of interest for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Other symptoms can include poor concentration, low energy, hopelessness and changes in sleep or appetite. who.int

Recognising these changes can prompt a conversation, but diagnosis requires assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.

Listening Without Judgement

Anthony Ezeobele, a clinical psychology scholar at Lagos State University and Catholic priest, said expectations of masculinity, family responsibilities and fear of judgement could discourage men from seeking support.

“Men often hide depression because society teaches them that masculinity means being strong, independent, and emotionally tough,” he said.

He identified persistent sadness, irritability, loss of interest, social withdrawal, excessive drinking and poor concentration as reasons to seek assessment.

Ezeobele warned that untreated depression could be associated with severe distress, substance misuse, sleep difficulties and suicide risk.

“Seeking help for depression is a sign of strength, not weakness,” he said.

He appealed to relatives and friends to listen without judgement, while urging workplaces and healthcare providers to encourage open conversations and access to care.

Support at Home and Work

Obindo called for accessible mental health services that give men safe opportunities to discuss their difficulties. He also encouraged supportive workplaces and greater community awareness.

Both contributors said unmet expectations and pressures during midlife could affect some men’s wellbeing, relationships and decisions, making early support valuable.

Effective treatments for depression include psychological therapies and, where appropriate, medication. Exercise, regular routines and supportive relationships can help with wellbeing, alongside professional care. who.int

Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should speak promptly with a health professional and someone they trust. Where there is immediate danger of self-harm, emergency assistance is needed. who.int

The specialists’ central appeal was for families, communities and employers to make it easier for men to acknowledge distress and receive help early.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.