Recognizing anxiety in men 

While women are about twice as likely to be diagnosed with anxiety, men also suffer the consequences of this disorder. Making the situation even worse for men is the fact guys are less likely to receive treatment for mental health issues such as for anxiety. Seeking help, especially for an anxiety disorder, would be viewed as a sign of weakness among men.  That’s why men with anxiety often suffer in silence as it negatively impacts their life.

What are the symptoms of anxiety in men?

The differences between women with anxiety and men can be striking. Women experiencing anxiousness may come across as overly worried or will completely avoid situations that frighten them.

Anxiety in men looks different from anxiety in women. One reason why is from the time they were young children, men have been taught to suppress feelings or displays of anxiety.  It is more ‘manly’ to show strength and courage than to show feelings of perceived weakness. That’s why men experiencing anxiety without expressing how they feel may exhibit itself differently – headaches, sleep difficulties, muscle aches and pains, using alcohol or drugs to cope, or even anger and irritability.

Other physical signs of anxiety in men may include the following:

·      Pounding or racing heart

·      Excessive sweating

·      Muscle tension

·      Restlessness or agitation

·      Dizziness or vertigo

·      Shortness of breath or choking sensations

·      Panic attacks

Emotionally, men may manifest anxiety by becoming more absentminded or difficulties concentrating, exhibiting feelings of dread over a situation, avoiding certain situations, or showing a fear of losing control.

Anxious men often let their feelings build up until they reach a breaking point in which they can’t hold back anymore. That’s why some men with anxiety may go into a fit of rage or anger as it may seem to be more acceptable and because their anxiety is not being expressed in a healthy way. Anxious men are more likely to experience relationship strains than women. Women rely more on expressing their feelings with close friends while men tend to have few confidants to provide them support when feeling emotional distress. Men with anxiety may also obsess over their financial or social status. Even very successful men are often anxious about getting ahead of their peers and when they see other men advancing in their careers, it only fuels their anxiety disorder.

Treatments for anxiety in men

The first thing for men to know is anxiety is a normal human feeling and condition. But when it becomes so severe and pervasive impairing affecting their work and relationships, then it can cross over into a disorder. Just like any medical condition, there are ways to manage and recover from an anxiety disorder.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CAB) is one method that is a well-researched and effective treatment for anxiety disorders.  CAB can help men learn to alter their thinking that is leading to anxiety and to affectively seek out better approaches in situations they are feeling anxious about. 

Men who are seeking treatment for anxiety may also prefer avoiding diagnostic labels such as “anxiety disorder.” Rather than using the word anxiety which can make some men feel uncomfortable, those performing treatment for men with anxiety may call it instead “coaching” or “help with performance” focusing on whatever distress may be causing their feelings.

Other treatments for anxiety in men may include discussing with their primary care physician who can be a good source of information.  These same doctors can evaluate men to help distinguish between anxiety or depression and together work out an action plan.

Changes in lifestyle are other helpful ways to reduce anxiety in men.  Spending more time with supportive friends, getting regular exercise, tackling any sleep issues, eating a healthy diet, and cutting back on alcohol and positive ways helping reduce anxiety symptoms. Helping men find activities or hobbies they enjoy can be especially helpful in the long-term.

For spouses or friends of a man with anxiety, here are things to do supporting them during this time:

·      Listen to them without judgment

·      Offer to go with them to a doctor or health professional or help them make the appointment

·      Discourage them from using alcohol or drugs to make themselves feel better

·      Invite them out to eat, keep in touch with them, but also don’t pressure them to participate in activities

·      Ask about how they are feeling – encourage men to have a regular sleep schedule, to exercise and to eat a healthy diet

Anyone who suspects or knows a man with anxiety that is needing support, should talk to a doctor about getting them professional help.

Dr. David B. Samadi is a Urologic Oncology Expert and Robotic Surgeon located at 485 Madison Avenue on the 21st floor, New York, NY – 212-365-5000.  Follow Dr. Samadi at www.samadimd.com,  www.prostatecancer911.com, and www.roboticoncology.com.