The male experience of depression.
OBJECTIVE
Men's lived experience of depression


METHODS
A qualitative study using grounded theory (N = 14).


RESULTS
The men interviewed experienced rigid, traditional role identities; expectations related to performance; emotional distance from others; the loss of control; the hidden self; depression as a force; substance use and abuse; suicide as a means of taking control; and late entry into treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Beliefs about being male are challenged by the illness, and challenge the process of treatment and recovery.
Heifner
C
C
Partial Hospitalization Program, Akron General Medical Center, OH, USA.
D000328:Adult; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology*; D005783:Gender Identity; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D012737:Sex Factors