While both women and men can develop the standard symptoms of depression, they often experience depression differently. They also may have different ways of coping with the symptoms.

Men may be more likely to show fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies, and sleep disturbances rather than feelings of sadness, worthlessness and excessive guilt.

Instead of discussing their feelings, asking for help or seeking appropriate treatment, men may turn to alcohol or drugs when they are depressed. They may become frustrated, discouraged, angry, irritable or violently abusive.

Some men deal with depression by throwing themselves into their work, attempting to hide their depression from themselves, family and friends. Other men may respond to depression by engaging in reckless behavior, taking risks, and putting themselves in harm’s way.

Depression is a disorder of the brain. Research shows that the parts of the brain that control moods, thinking, sleep, appetite and behavior fail to function properly and that chemicals which brain cells use to communicate are out of balance.

Sometimes depression runs in families, although it also can occur in people with no family history of the illness. Often depression results from a combination of factors, including life events. Trauma, loss of a loved one, a difficult relationship, a financial problem, or any stressful change can trigger depression in vulnerable individuals. Later episodes may occur without an obvious cause.