In general, depression is a sadness that continues day after day. There are other factors to look for if you wonder whether you are clinically depressed. They are described in other sections of this document. For instance, for men, depression can also show up as irritability, or acting our by engaging in dangerous sports, unprotected sex or self-medication with alcohol or drugs.

Depression may be related to a physical condition and/or treatment and/or an imbalance in your system which may be caused by your health condition or treatment.. 

Depression can have a significant negative impact on quality of life, on the quality of your medical care, and whether you take a necessary treatment or adhere to a drug and/or nutrition regimen.

Depression does not have to be a part of life after a diagnosis.

• It can be treated in most cases. 
• Exercise generally helps. 
• There is also the possibility of short term use of anti-depressant medications. 
• Perhaps not surprisingly, pets can help relieve depression.
• NOTE: Avoid self medicating with alcohol or other substances. Alcohol is a depressant. St. John's Wort, a supplement that some people use for depression, has interactions with many prescription medications. Speak with your doctor before taking St. John's Wort.

Depression is nothing to be ashamed of, even for men. Being clincally depressed and/or seeking treatment for depression does not make you "weak" or "dependent." No one except you and your doctor needs to know you are getting treatment. The only shame is in letting outdated notions about depression and masculinity stop you from taking advantage of the treatment and support that is available.

If you are working, depression can be used as a disabling condition to help you claim disability income when you want it.

Don't wait for your doctor to bring up your mental health. Let your doctor know about continuing sadness and about any other changes in your mental health. 

If part of your depression relates to financial concerns, address them directly. To learn more, see: How To Cope With A Financial Crunch.

If a depression becomes unbearable, or if  the idea of suicide becomes more than a passing thought, consider calling a crisis hotline such as US National & Crisis Hotline (800 SUICIDE, 800.784.2433), a friend or family member who can help, or go to the nearest emergency room or mental health crisis center.

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