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» A AMC MAGA Z I N E | L AT E F A L L 2 014
Healthier U
Even a tough guy goes to the hospital if a
tree falls on his head. So why won’t men
seek medical help when their world comes
crashing down on them, as it can with
depression? Nearly 6 million American men
experience depression each year, yet few
seek treatment.
Perhaps men don’t realize that depression
is a disease—not a weakness. Or maybe
they’re not aware that successful treatments
exist. No matter the reason, depression
is a disease that shouldn’t be ignored by
anyone—including men.
Recognizing depression
“The vast majority of people who seek
treatment for depression end up feeling
better,” says Raymond Hoffman, MD,
a psychiatrist and the medical director
of mental health and substance abuse at
AAMC. It’s a good idea to visit your doctor
if you’re experiencing these signs and
symptoms of depression:
›
›
loss of energy or increased fatigue
›
›
restlessness, anger or irritability
›
›
a lack of interest in favorite activities
›
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sleep problems
›
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changes in appetite
›
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excessive feelings of
sadness, worthlessness
or guilt
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trouble concentrating,
remembering or
making decisions
›
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thoughts of, or
attempts at, suicide
Your doctor can check to see if physical
problems are affecting your emotional
health. Plus, he or she can refer you to a
therapist or counselor who will work with
you to relieve your symptoms.
It’s OK to ask for help
“It may not be easy to talk about how
you’re feeling,” Dr. Hoffman says. “But
depression can seriously interfere with your
work and personal life. Acknowledging it
and getting treatment can help you get your
life back to normal.”
Additional sources: American Psychiatric Association;
American Psychological Association; National Institute
of Mental Health
How much do you know about depression? Take a quiz at
askAAMC.org/Depression
.
Every Man (Even You!)
Needs a Doctor
Starsky had Hutch. Captain Kirk had
Mr. Spock. Guys, when it comes to your
health, who’s your partner?
Hopefully, it’s a primary care
physician. A primary care physician is
the provider you pick to be your regular,
go-to doc. He or she can help you
prevent illnesses and stay healthy. Your
PCP can also find any health problems
early, when they’re often easier to treat.
As in any partnership, you’ve got to
communicate well with your doctor.
Share important information and don’t
be shy. Mention any problems you’re
having with your body or your mood,
and be honest about your health
habits—such as if you drink, smoke or
use street drugs. Your PCP has heard it
all and won’t judge—only help.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services
Raymond
Hoffman, MD
DEPRESSION
It’s a
Guy Thing
Too
Need a doctor? Let us help you
find one who meets your needs.
Visit
askAAMC.org/FindaDoc
or
call
443-481-4000
.
