Why Men Who Are Introverts May Struggle with Depression and How to Support Their Overall Health
Introverts and extroverts can suffer from depression or other mental health issues, introverts often struggle more to speak out when they have to deal with it. Introverts are typically quiet and reserved, preferring quiet time away from other people. They are mistaken as being shy, but may not open as easily as an extrovert might. Introverts do not get along with everybody and love having time for themselves. They avoid crowds and are not into going to parties. Introverts are selective when it comes to friendships or building social contacts. They are labeled as ‘boring’ or feel judged all the time. Find out why they struggle with depression and how to support them.
Socializing
Being social does not come easy for someone with introversion. They tend to stay away from lots of social engagement and may even struggle with social phobias. They often leave parties early or ghost and try not to be seen. Since introverts cannot handle certain social situations, they are often considered ‘unsocial nerds.’ they are not unsocial, they just don’t fit into a crowd. Those who are not that good at making group conversations are usually left out. Introverts struggle with intrusive thoughts they cannot get rid of and may slip into depression as a result. Men are especially tricky because they do not like to talk openly about feelings always and can easily fall into habits of isolation, then depression. There is still a stigma around men with depression, which also makes it hard to open up.
Are Introverts Depressed
Depressive symptoms can impact anyone at any time. They generally affect them in terms of social anxiety and feelings of inferiority. Men are typically seen in society as the breadwinners, even though that has shifted. Men who are depressed and feel inferior are not seen as strong or capable when related to their peers. This causes other anxieties and fears for men. Falling into depression can happen as a result of pulling away from criticism and feeling like they need help but not being sure how to ask.
Oftentimes, individuals who are introverts and struggle with depression will turn to drugs or alcohol to help them cope with their mental illness and the stress of life. Some will use stimulant drugs that make them feel more outgoing and allow them to more easily socialize. Others may turn to alcohol to help them cope with their depression or fit in while in social settings. These coping mechanisms can be dangerous. Some people will need a specialized addiction treatment program to help them identify new coping mechanisms.
What to Do for a Depressed Introvert
When seeking help, it is essential to figure out what the person wants. If they want help to get better, they need to reach out to someone. Some tips to help a person do that:
- Do some self-work. Offer forgiveness to the past and present self, and others, and don’t set high expectations that cannot be met. Focus on what is possible here and now
- Seek professional help: addiction can accompany depressive symptoms for men. Find a way to seek professional evidence based therapy and treatment for issues like lingering mental health issues and addictive behaviors
- Don’t do it alone: find support from family, friends, and loved ones. Don’t try to do this alone without talking to someone who knows the person and how to best support them
The Last Resort provides a safe, supportive environment for men in a retreat-like setting. Nature is an important component of recovery and healing. We strive to provide a place of enrichment that cultivates the inner as well as the outer journey of recovery. However you find your way to the Last Resort, we endeavor to provide a haven where you can journey through recovery feeling like your life and story have meaning and a purpose. Contact us to find out more.