The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that more than 6 million American men suffer from depression. Depression is a treatable illness, but men are much less likely to admit to depression or to seek help than women. Also, depression manifests itself differently in men than in women. Check out the symptoms of male depression below.

Watch for symptoms of male depression

If your partner suffers persistently (for two weeks or more) or severely from three or more of these symptoms, talk to a doctor. For a better understanding of the symptoms and more information about depression, read the NIMH's Real Men Real Depression booklet at www.nimh.nih.gov.

• He's persistently sad and anxious.
• He often feels hopeless or pessimistic.
• He often feels guilty, worthless and helpless.
• He has lost interest in hobbies and activities that used to give him pleasure.
• He has much less energy and often feels fatigued.
• He has difficulty concentrating, remembering things and making decisions.
• He has trouble sleeping or oversleeps because he finds it hard to wake up in the morning.
• He has significantly lost or gained weight.
• He has suicidal thoughts or has attempted suicide.
• He's irritable and restless or creates conflicts.
• He has persistent and often unexplained aches and pains.
• He has decreased interest in sex.
• He has become more withdrawn and antisocial.
• He works significantly longer hours, works excessively.
• He has increased his consumption of alcohol.