Guardians of Male Mental Health: Analysis of Assessment Criteria and Hidden Manifestations and Prevention of Depression [i]

There is a simple standard for assessing mental health: anyone who responds positively to events or activities beneficial to mental health is mentally healthy [i]. Men, as the mainstays of family and society, are likely mentally healthy if they regularly use this standard to measure their words and actions in daily life [i]. Mental health is actually a continuous psychological state in which the individual has good adaptability, vitality, and can fully utilize their abilities and potential [i]. No one perfectly meets the standards of mental health, but mental health is always a goal people strive for [i]. Traditionally, men are expected to handle their problems independently, rather than expressing their emotions [i]. This social role assigned to men has also brought about certain negative effects [i]. When a man exhibits inexplicable anger and indifference, it may indicate that he has something else going on [i]. In reality, most people may fall into depression to varying degrees [i]. Depression is a very complex emotion, a result of a combination of emotions such as pain, anger, anxiety, sadness, self-blame, shame, and indifference [i]. Depression exceeding normal limits becomes distorted depression, a pathological state of mind [i]. Modern psychological research shows that people with depressive tendencies often build a wall separating themselves from the world[i]. Inside this closed wall, they not only refuse help from others but also punish themselves in various ways[i]. In the prison of depression, people with depressive tendencies simultaneously play the dual roles of suffering prisoners and cruel sinners[i]. It is this special psychological barrier-"isolation"-that distinguishes depression from ordinary unpleasant feelings[i]. People with depressive tendencies also often blame and belittle themselves, falling into a deep sense of loss from which they cannot extricate themselves[i]. Compared with female patients with depression, male patients with depression are more likely to exhibit: recklessness, alcoholism, drug abuse, speeding, etc.[i]. Unlike female patients with depression who are overly self-doubting, they prefer to bully, frighten, and blame others for their mistakes[i]. For many men, getting angry is a cover-up for their inner pain[i]. Some psychologists have suggested creating a specific symptom scale for men's depression, such as being arrogant and boastful, easily crying when alone; speeding and taking unnecessary risks; and easily becoming inexplicably angry over trivial matters when facing a lover [i]. These patients are often successful individuals who experience deep-seated suffering because men are bound by traditional values ​​and expected to play a strong role [i]. Many factors can cause depression [i]. Some men experience mild depression, sometimes due to a lack of testosterone, manifesting as fatigue or sexual dysfunction [i]. Additionally, negative life experiences such as unemployment or heartbreak can damage mood [i]. Alcohol can provide temporary relief, but excessive drinking can produce and exacerbate depressive symptoms [i]. Studies show that 15% of suicide victims suffer from depression [i]. Depression can also more than double the risk of heart disease and accelerate aging [i]. If a person experiences depressive mood for more than two weeks, is indifferent to things that used to bring them joy (anhedonia), and also experiences drowsiness or insomnia, fatigue or apathy, excessive guilt, forgetfulness, indecisiveness, or suicidal thoughts, then this person is more likely to have depression [i]. Depression is an illness that can be cured [i]. 80% to 90% of people who receive treatment experience significant improvement [i]. Prevention and health care suggestions for depression: 1. Maintain a cheerful mood and actively participate in social activities [i]. 2. Become good friends with the plants, animals, and birds in nature to broaden your horizons [i]. 3. Do what you are most interested in [i]. Find ways to improve your skills and start by seeking opportunities for success in things that interest you [i]. Plan activities that bring you joy and confidence [i]. 4. Maintaining a regular lifestyle is very important. Try to eat on time, have regular sleep patterns, and schedule some time for physical exercise every day [i]. 5. Dietary adjustments: Eat more calcium-rich foods, such as soybeans, red dates, fish, and milk [i]. Also, eat more foods rich in vitamin B and amino acids, such as grains, green vegetables, and eggs [i]. Avoid alcohol and caffeine [i]. Appropriate physical exercise is very helpful in relieving stress [i].