Dealing with Depression
Infertility can be very difficult to deal with; it is often associated with numerous tests, multiple fertility treatments, and increasing financial strain. And for men facing infertility, the going can be especially difficult. Infertility is generally seen as a woman’s issue, and therefore many men may not be getting the emotional support they need when struggling with male infertility. Having to deal with these emotions alone causes many men to suffer from depression. This depression can lead to numerous physical side effects and put a strain on relationships, work, and enjoyment of daily life. However, effective treatment, including prescription medications, alternative therapies and botanical supplements, are available and can help you leave the fog of depression behind.
Infertility and Depression
Infertility is often a rollercoaster ride of emotions: you may find that you are hopeful one day, but angry or frustrated the next. Many researchers recognize that women undergoing fertility treatments are at a high risk for developing depression. Yet, experiencing fertility problems can be stressful for both partners. However, we are only just beginning to acknowledge that men too, can suffer from infertility-related depression.
Who Does It Affect?
According to recent studies, it is thought that more than 10% of men going through fertility treatments experience some type of clinical depression. In fact, couples undergoing fertility therapy often experience levels of depression similar to those battling chronic illnesses, such as cancer and AIDS. Men who aren’t receiving any type of emotional support from their partners, family, or professionals are at greatest risk for experiencing infertility-related depression.
Major Depression
Major depression is a term used to describe a condition that is much more than just the blues. We all experience emotions of sadness and loneliness from time to time, but, in some people, these feelings become overwhelming. Also known as unipolar depression, major depression can affect the way you work, the way you relate to others, and your physical health and appearance. Serious, major depression can lead to feelings of extreme guilt and worthlessness, and is sometimes associated with self harm or even suicide.
What are the Signs of Depression?
The main symptom of depression is a feeling of unrelenting sadness or despair. However, there are many other symptoms that could be triggered by a case of depression. Common symptoms of depression include:
- feelings of guilt, blame, or worthlessness
- difficulty sleeping
- sleeping too much
- lack of interest in activities or relationships
- change in appetite
- weight loss or gain
- alcohol or drug abuse
- thoughts of, or episodes of, self-harm
Why Does Depression Happen?
Depression can be the result of many different factors, particularly when it is related to infertility. Generally, episodes of depression can be linked to:
- Biological Factors: Depression is often the result of an imbalance of neurotransmitters within the brain. Neurotransmitters, like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, are responsible for sending messages throughout the brain. These messages often regulate mood. If these neurotransmitters become unbalanced, this can trigger a change in mood.
- Genetics: There appears to be a genetic link to depression in some people. Depression tends to run in families, so if you have a close family member who suffers from depression, there is an increased likelihood that you will too.
- Environment: Environment also plays a strong role in causing depression. Environmental factors, like stress, loss, or change often trigger episodes of depression.
Your battle with infertility may be stressful enough to trigger a depressive episode, particularly if you are already genetically predisposed to depression.
Depression Treatment During Infertility
Depression can really take a toll on your emotional and physical well being. It can also impact your relationship with your partner, particularly during this stressful time. This is why it is so important to receive help for depression. There are a number of different treatments available to help manage depression. They are often used in combination with one another to provide the best results.
Medications
Medications are available for treating depression. Known as antidepressants, these depression medications work to alter the balance of neurotransmitters in your brain, helping to improve mood. Your health care provider can recommend the antidepressant that will work best for you. Some antidepressants used to treat depression include:
- tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
- selective serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Therapy
Therapy is often used to treat depression, and is especially important when dealing with depression caused by infertility. Though it can sometimes be difficult for men to talk about their emotions, it is important to acknowledge and address the feelings caused by your battle with infertility.
Talking with your partner is often one of the best ways to address depression. A counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist may be able to facilitate open and honest conversation between both of you. One-on-one therapy may also be beneficial in helping to eliminate negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Alternately, you may wish to find a support group that can help you to overcome depression caused by infertility. Support groups designed for male infertility can often be very helpful. These support groups can provide you with the opportunity to speak with other men who are battling infertility, as well as to express your own emotions regarding treatments and future family planning.
