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Depression Treatment Program in Los Angeles

depression in menDepression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. People suffering from depression experience feelings of loneliness, pessimism, and worthlessness. While everyone may experience these symptoms at some point, what sets those suffering from clinical depression apart is that these feelings of hopelessness persist and are extreme enough to prevent an individual from completing daily tasks or activities.

While people of all ages and genders can suffer from depression, the way in which men and women experience depression can differ greatly. If you or a loved one are a male and displaying signs of depression, finding depression treatment in Los Angeles designed specifically for men is important. Going to a male-specific facility, such as Recover Integrity can allow for effective treatment and provide psychiatric care and support needed for a healthier and happier life.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Men?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression affects nearly 20 million Americans a year. In order for a person to be diagnosed with depression, they must exhibit symptoms daily for a minimum of two weeks.

While many symptoms of depression apply to both men and women, such as persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, fatigue, and changes in sleep and appetite, men may experience additional unique indicators of depression that require careful attention.

Unique Signs of Depression in Men

Some unique signs and symptoms of depression found in men include:

  • Anger and Irritability: Men may be more likely to express their depression through irritability, anger, or even aggression. These emotions can mask underlying feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
  • Risk-Taking Behaviors: Engaging in risky behaviors, such as excessive drinking, drug abuse, or reckless driving, can be a manifestation of depression in men.
  • Physical Symptoms: Men might experience physical symptoms like headaches, digestive problems, or chronic pain alongside emotional distress.
  • Isolation: Instead of withdrawing into sadness like some women do, men might isolate themselves socially, avoiding friends and family.
  • Escapism: Men may resort to excessive work, gaming, or other distractions as a way to escape their depressive thoughts.

Depression Can Manifest Differently In Men

Men don’t only experience depression differently from a symptoms standpoint, but they also experience depression differently from a societal standpoint. In large part, society has told men that they have to be the stronger sex and, as a result, should not show vulnerability.

For men suffering from depression, they may feel as though they are expected to suppress their feelings and simply “get over it”. This can not only lead to a delay in seeking treatment for their depression, but it can cause other significant issues such as the development of additional mental health conditions or even substance abuse and addiction.

What To Expect in Depression Treatment

Recovery from depression is possible with the right treatment approach. Seeking professional help is a crucial step in managing depression effectively.

A comprehensive depression treatment program typically involves the following components:

Therapy

Different types of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and psychotherapy, can help individuals understand and manage their depressive thoughts and behaviors.

In addition, therapy can help men get a better understanding of the triggers and underlying factors that may have contributed to their depression so that they can learn and implement healthy coping mechanisms.


Medication

In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help regulate brain chemistry and alleviate symptoms associated with depression. In fact, several FDA-approved medications can be used to help treat the symptoms associated with depression, including:

  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI)
  • Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRI)
  • Tricyclic and Tetracyclic Antidepressants
  • Atypical Antidepressants
  • Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) Antagonist
  • Neuroactive Steroid Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)-A Receptor Positive Modulator

Recover Integrity offer medication-assisted treatment for men who may require medicine to cope with their mental health or addiction.


Lifestyle Changes

Incorporating regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can significantly impact mood and overall well-being.


Support Groups

Many people, especially men, that suffer from depression may feel as though they are alone and that nobody can understand what they are going through. Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment filled with others who are experiencing similar challenges and can provide a sense of community, while also reducing feelings of isolation.

How is Co-Occurring Substance Abuse Treated in Men with Depression?

As we touched on earlier, society as a whole has told men that they can’t be vulnerable and share their feelings. As a result, many men who suffer from depression look for ways to suppress their feelings. One of these ways is through the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol as a form of self-medication.

For men who are suffering from a mental health condition such as depression as well as a substance abuse or addiction issue, dual diagnosis treatment is crucial. Dual diagnosis treatment allows the person to be treated for depression and substance use disorder simultaneously.

What are the Benefits of Outpatient vs Inpatient Depression Treatment for Men?

When deciding between inpatient and outpatient treatment when it comes to treating depression, it’s important to consider a number of factors including:

  • The severity of the condition
  • The existence of any co-occurring disorders
  • Advice from treatment professionals
  • Presence of a supportive home environment
  • Personal choice

Below are some of the benefits of both inpatient and outpatient treatment:

Inpatient Treatment
  • Intensive Support: Inpatient depression treatment provides a higher level of intensive support and supervision, making it an appropriate choice for men with severe depression or those at risk of harm to themselves or others. With 24/7 care, individuals have access to a structured and controlled environment that is focused on their healing and recovery. This constant support can be essential in managing acute symptoms and providing immediate interventions.
  • Focused Treatment: In an inpatient setting, men can fully immerse themselves in their recovery journey without the distractions and stressors of daily life. This focused environment allows individuals to dedicate their time and energy solely to their mental health and well-being. It provides an opportunity for introspection, self-discovery, and comprehensive therapy that can lead to profound personal growth and lasting change.
  • Immediate Intervention: For men facing a crisis or those in need of urgent intervention, inpatient treatment offers immediate access to medical and psychiatric support. This level of immediate care can be crucial in stabilizing individuals who may be experiencing severe symptoms or contemplating self-harm. Inpatient treatment provides a safe and secure space where individuals can receive the necessary medical attention and supervision during critical moments.

Outpatient Treatment
  • Flexibility: Outpatient depression treatment offers a level of flexibility that can be especially beneficial for men with work, family, or educational commitments. It allows individuals to attend therapy sessions and receive treatment while still maintaining their daily responsibilities. This flexibility can make it easier for men to continue their usual routines, reducing disruptions to their lives.
  • Community Support: One of the key advantages of outpatient treatment is the opportunity for individuals to receive treatment in their own environments. This allows them to practice the skills they learn during therapy sessions in real-world settings. Men can receive feedback and support from their therapists as they navigate everyday challenges, enabling them to develop effective coping strategies that can be directly applied to their lives.
  • Affordability: Outpatient treatment programs often tend to be more cost-effective than inpatient programs. This can be particularly important for men who are concerned about the financial implications of seeking treatment. The reduced costs associated with outpatient care can make it a more accessible option for those who may be worried about the financial impact of taking time away from work or other responsibilities.

How Long Does Depression Treatment Typically Last?

depression treatment in LA

The duration of depression treatment can vary widely depending on individual factors such as the severity of the condition, treatment response, and personal goals. Some individuals may experience significant improvement within a few months, while others may require longer-term support.

Once treatment has been completed, many men benefit from participating in an ongoing maintenance therapy program as a part of a larger long-term aftercare program. This phase is crucial not only in preventing a relapse, but helping the person adjust to their “new” life.

Contact Recovery Integrity for Depression Treatment in Los Angeles

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Recovery Integrity is dedicated to providing comprehensive and specialized mental health treatment programs tailored to men’s unique needs. Our experienced team of mental health professionals understands the distinct ways depression can affect men and offers evidence-based interventions to promote lasting recovery. Whether you’re seeking outpatient or inpatient treatment, we’re committed to guiding you on your journey toward improved mental health and a brighter future.

If you or a loved one is a male suffering from depression and could benefit from one of our many treatment programs, contact us today.

CALL NOW: (310) 776-3696