Male depression and coping skills

Treatment with a mental health professional can help you learn to:

• Note your emotions and coping strategies to see how you can make them better.
• Learn ways to manage stress, such as meditation and mindfulness, and develop problem-solving skills.
• Learn to adjust your thinking and try new approaches to situations.
• Decide what is important in your life and move toward those values.
• Set realistic goals and put tasks in order of importance.
• Seek out emotional support from a partner, family or friends. Learn how to make social connections so that you can take part in social activities.
• Wait until you get better before you make important decisions, such as changing jobs.
• Take part in activities you usually enjoy, such as ballgames, fishing or a hobby.
• Try to stay on a regular schedule and make healthy lifestyle choices. This includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and not using alcohol and other substances, for better mental health.

Many effective treatments are available for depression. Don't try to deal with male depression on your own. The results could be harmful or tragic.