Citation

Fields AJ, Cochran SV. Am. J. Lifestyle Med. 2011; 5(1): 92-100.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1559827610378347

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Epidemiological and health care utilization rates document potential underidentification and under-treatment of men who may suffer from major depression. Limitations in diagnostic criteria may prevent health care professionals from clearly recognizing depression in the men they treat. Societal norms related to masculine gender role socialization may create barriers to help seeking for men who could benefit from treatment for depression. This review integrates up-to-date research with clinical reports and offers recommendations for health care professionals. The primary goals of the recommendations are to increase sensitivity to male patients who may suffer from depression and to equip professionals with scientifically informed strategies for recognizing and responding to men who are identified with depression.