Some men conceal depression due to societal expectations of masculinity, exposing themselves to worsening psychological distress and delaying access to professional mental health care, experts have said.
Societal expectations that equate masculinity with strength, independence and emotional toughness may discourage some men from acknowledging depression or seeking professional help for fear of being judged.
Mental health experts warn that emotional suppression can worsen depression, trigger anxiety and affect relationships and workplace performance, stressing the importance of early recognition and professional intervention.
Prof. Taiwo Obindo, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Jos, said in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that cultural expectations could discourage some men from acknowledging depression.
“Men generally will suppress and hide their depression symptoms based on cultural expectations, building a psyche that men cannot be weak, making their symptoms chronic,” he said.
He said emotional suppression could contribute to anxiety disorders and depression, with affected men experiencing irritability, aggression, hopelessness, social withdrawal and difficulties functioning at home and at work.
Obindo, who is also Chairman of the Faculty of Psychiatry, West African College of Physicians (Nigeria Chapter), identified sleep and appetite disturbances, weight loss, poor memory, reduced libido, nightmares, hallucinations and suicidal thoughts as other warning signs.
“Men can be depressed. Men can have issues, and therefore men do cry. And so expression of their emotion should not be restricted,” he said.
He urged families and employers to watch for behavioural changes, poor self-care, social withdrawal and declining workplace performance, stressing the need for awareness and early professional intervention.
The psychiatrist said accessible mental health services could provide safe spaces for men to discuss their challenges, while exercise could help them manage pent-up anger and emotional distress.
He said the Mental Health Act placed responsibility on employers to assist workers in accessing appropriate mental health services, adding that supportive workplaces and community awareness were essential.
Obindo said a midlife crisis could arise from unmet expectations, hormonal changes and societal pressures, affecting men’s relationships and decision-making, particularly when their achievements fell short of their personal expectations.
Adding his perspective, Anthony Ezeobele, a clinical psychology scholar at Lagos State University, said societal expectations of masculinity, fear of judgment and family responsibilities could discourage some men from seeking help.
“Men often hide depression because society teaches them that masculinity means being strong, independent, and emotionally tough,” he said.
He said untreated depression could lead to severe emotional distress, anxiety, substance abuse, physical exhaustion, sleep problems and, in some cases, suicide.
Ezeobele, a Catholic priest, identified persistent sadness, irritability, social withdrawal, excessive drinking, loss of interest, appetite changes and poor concentration as warning signs.
“Seeking help for depression is a sign of strength, not weakness,” he said.
He urged society to encourage men to express their emotions without fear of judgment.
He appealed to families and friends to listen without judgment, while workplaces and healthcare providers should promote open conversations, emotional support and early professional intervention.
Ezeobele said midlife crises could cause stress, dissatisfaction and confusion among some men, potentially affecting their relationships and decision-making. He added that families should encourage men to seek help early.
