Day 6: Black Men Facing Depression
African American males, like people of all backgrounds, can experience depression. Depression is frequently misdiagnosed and undertreated in this community, which can have serious consequences. This essay examines African American men’s undiagnosed depression.
Undiagnosed depression in African American men increases self-harm and suicide risk. African American men are less likely to seek mental health treatment, including depression, and more likely to self-harm and commit suicide, according to NAMI. Mental health stigma and the belief that seeking assistance is weak are the main reasons. African American males with undiagnosed depression are at risk for self-harm and suicide, which may be devastating for them and their families.
Undiagnosed depression in African American males also impairs stress management. Depression can impair emotional regulation, rational thinking, and good decision-making. This can raise stress and resilience, making it harder to handle life’s obstacles. African American males with undiagnosed depression may employ harmful coping mechanisms including drug misuse, which can exacerbate their mental health.
Undiagnosed depression can damage physical health. Depression can cause cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. African American males with undiagnosed depression may have physical health issues that impact their mental health and quality of life.
Undiagnosed depression also affects employment, education, and relationships. Depression can impair attention, productivity, and relationships. African American males with undiagnosed depression may suffer at job, school, and home, lowering their well-being.
Finally, undiagnosed depression in African American men can have serious consequences. Underdiagnosis and undertreatment of depression in this group can raise the risk of self-harm and suicide, impair the capacity to cope with stress and other life obstacles, affect physical health, and lower well-being in job, school, and personal relationships. Mental health experts and loved ones must notice and encourage African American males with depression to get assistance. Depression may be treated and improved with assistance.
