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 [Skip to main content](https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/how-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues#main-content) [Harvard Health Publishing ](https://www.health.harvard.edu/) [Harvard Health Publishing](https://www.health.harvard.edu/) [HarvardHealthOnline+](https://www.health.harvard.edu/hho-plus?utm_source=site&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=top_button) Search [Customer Service](https://www.health.harvard.edu/customer-service) [Content Licensing](https://www.health.harvard.edu/licensing) [About Us](https://www.health.harvard.edu/about-us) [Log In](https://www.health.harvard.edu/login) Open mobile menu [Free HealthBeat Signup](https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat) Shop [Subscriptions](https://www.health.harvard.edu/subscribe) [Special Health Reports](https://www.health.harvard.edu/special-health-reports) [Online Courses](https://www.harvardhealthonlinelearning.com/catalog) [Pay Subscription Bill](https://www.health.harvard.edu/pay-bill) [Common Conditions](https://www.health.harvard.edu/category/common-conditions) [Staying Healthy](https://www.health.harvard.edu/category/staying-healthy) [Resources](https://www.health.harvard.edu/resources) [Blog](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog) [COVID-19 Updates](https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/coronavirus-resource-center) Close menu [HarvardHealthOnline+](https://www.health.harvard.edu/hho-plus?utm_source=site&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=mobile_button) ## Main Content - [Common Conditions](https://www.health.harvard.edu/category/common-conditions) - [Staying Healthy](https://www.health.harvard.edu/category/staying-healthy) - [Resources](https://www.health.harvard.edu/resources) - [Blog](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog) ## Helpful Links - [Customer Service](https://www.health.harvard.edu/customer-service) - [About Us](https://www.health.harvard.edu/about-us) - [Content Licensing](https://www.health.harvard.edu/licensing) - [Free Healthbeat Signup](https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat) - [Subscriptions](https://www.health.harvard.edu/subscribe) - [Special Health Reports](https://www.health.harvard.edu/special-health-reports) - [Online Courses](https://www.harvardhealthonlinelearning.com/) - [Pay Subscription Bill](https://www.health.harvard.edu/pay-bill) Close Recent Articles [ Coping with chronic pain, depression, and high blood pressure](https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/coping-with-chronic-pain-depression-and-high-blood-pressure) [ Can you prevent the hunched back of kyphosis?](https://www.health.harvard.edu/bones-and-joints/can-you-prevent-the-hunched-back-of-kyphosis) [ What is ventricular bigeminy?](https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/what-is-ventricular-bigeminy) [ Emojis in electronic health records could be confusing](https://www.health.harvard.edu/preventive-care/emojis-in-electronic-health-records-could-be-confusing) [ Doing different types of exercise linked to a longer life](https://www.health.harvard.edu/exercise-and-fitness/doing-different-types-of-exercise-linked-to-a-longer-life) [ CPR on TV may be misleading](https://www.health.harvard.edu/preventive-care/cpr-on-tv-may-be-misleading) [ How gum disease may raise heart disease risk](https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/how-gum-disease-may-raise-heart-disease-risk) [ FDA approves nasal spray to treat rapid heart rhythm](https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/fda-approves-nasal-spray-to-treat-rapid-heart-rhythm) [ Smart watch may improve detection of atrial fibrillation](https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/smart-watch-may-improve-detection-of-atrial-fibrillation) [ 4 keys to a heart-healthy diet](https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/4-keys-to-a-heart-healthy-diet) 1 / 10 [Mind & Mood](https://www.health.harvard.edu/topics/mind-and-mood) # How to recognize the signs of mental health issues ## Men are vulnerable to depression, phobias, and alcohol use disorder. Here's what to look for so you can seek help. April 1, 2024 By [Matthew Solan](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/matthew-solan), Former Executive Editor, [*Harvard Men's Health Watch*](https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens) - Reviewed by [Howard E. LeWine, MD](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/howard-lewine-md), Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing Share [Share this page to Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&display=popup) [Share this page to X](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&text=How%20to%20recognize%20the%20signs%20of%20mental%20health%20issues%20-%20Harvard%20Health&tw_p=tweetbutton&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues) [Share this page via Email](<mailto:?subject=Great health news for you from the experts at Harvard&body=Check out this link from Harvard Health: How to recognize the signs of mental health issues - https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/how-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues>) Copy this page to clipboard Print This Page Click to Print  People too often don't recognize that an underlying mental health problem is why they feel unwell. A study published in the September 2023 issue of *The Lancet Psychiatry* analyzed data collected over 20-plus years from more than 150,000 adults across 29 countries. The results showed that about half of people will develop at least one mental disorder by age 75. Among men, the most common disorders were depression, phobias, and alcohol use disorder. Why may this be the case? "Older adults are vulnerable to mental disorders because they are exposed to many life-changing and traumatic events like health issues, the death of loved ones, and physical limitations," says Dr. Ronald Kessler, a professor of health care policy at Harvard Medical School and one of the study's co-leaders. "Many also don't recognize the signs of a mental disorder and thus don't seek medical help, which can make the disorder worse." You might also be interested in...  ## Cognitive Fitness Online Course Wondering if you can affect your brain health, memory, and cognitive function? Learn in our course about simple lifestyle changes you can make to optimize your cognitive fitness—and stay mentally sharp\! [Learn More\!](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=522904043&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=4029671332&scheduleID=2570475&placementScheduleId=2570475&adItemScheduleId=2806028&adSize=0x0&metadata=%5B%5D&matches=%5B%22mental%22%5D&mt=1776069198276218&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&request_uuid=464fa3de-a106-47b4-8aa0-d793cf93db41&hc=e11ebc835153f61521c233ae4220d83ea7295beb&location=) Here are the warning signs and symptoms for depression, phobias, and alcohol use disorder that men should look out for. "Men should find comfort in knowing that they are not alone when dealing with a mental disorder," says Dr. Kessler. "Effective treatments are available, so they don't have to spend their life in pain." ## Depression A depressed man may gain or lose weight, eat more or less than usual, have difficulty concentrating, and have trouble sleeping or sleep more than usual. He also may battle fatigue and low energy, so even small tasks may appear impossible to manage. Other symptoms of depression include one or more of the following: - persistent sad or "empty" mood - loss of enjoyment in favorite activities - feelings of hopelessness or pessimism - feelings of worthlessness and guilt about a specific life experience or in general - increased boredom and apathy - trouble concentrating or making decisions - restlessness or irritability. **Get help.** Speak with your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms most days for two weeks or longer. The doctor can refer you for counseling, prescribe an antidepressant, or both. ## Phobias A phobia is a persistent, excessive, unrealistic fear of an object, person, animal, activity, or situation. Phobias are a type of anxiety disorder. You may be interested in...  ## Improving Memory Now you can tap into advice from Harvard Medical School experts to uncover how your brain changes as you age and discover the best ways to keep your mind and memory strong. Improving Memory is a fascinating look at how your mind works, paired with the best ways to protect your memory. You’ll discover: Steps you can take now to reduce your risk of dementia, the normal limitation of short-term memory that has nothing to do with memory loss, why aging isn’t always the culprit behind memory loss, 9 key differences between normal memory lapses and signs of dementia, 17 ways to improve memory and protect your brain, and more\! [LEARN MORE](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=524387919&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=4029671332&scheduleID=2570475&placementScheduleId=2570475&adItemScheduleId=3708161&adSize=0x0&metadata=%7B%22Promotion_name%22%3A%22IPM2%22%7D&matches=%5B%22mind%22%5D&mt=1776069198276374&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&request_uuid=464fa3de-a106-47b4-8aa0-d793cf93db41&hc=df8644d9dfbd01e12c8646d45f8237332872e5e1&location=) A man with a phobia either tries to avoid the object or situation that triggers the fear or endures it with great anxiety and distress. He also may overreact to a potential threat. Some examples of common phobias are fear of heights, public places, social situations, or closed spaces. Physical symptoms may include rapid heartbeat, shallow or rapid breathing, sweating, dizziness, upset stomach (cramps, nausea, diarrhea), headaches, and general pains. (Symptoms such as these also may lead to a diagnosis of panic disorder.) It's also common for men with an anxiety disorder to suffer from depression and struggle with low self-esteem. **Get help.** The first step to dealing with a phobia is to try to identify the underlying cause and possible stressors. You may be referred to a mental health professional for evaluation and treatment. Treatment for an anxiety disorder often includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy. ## Alcohol use disorder Today many experts recommend that people limit their alcohol use to no more than a single standard drink per day. In the United States, a standard drink is approximately 12 ounces of regular beer (5% alcohol by volume, or ABV), 5 ounces of wine (12% ABV), or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits (40% ABV). Moderate drinking wanders into excessive alcohol use disorder when someone regularly drinks more than he planned and continues to drink despite the concerns of others and frequent attempts to cut down or quit. He also may indulge in binge drinking (consuming five or more drinks on one occasion). You may be interested in...  ## A Guide to Cognitive Fitness In this Special Health Report, Harvard Medical School doctors share a six-step program that can yield important and lasting results. Together these “super 6” can strengthen your intellectual prowess, promote your powers of recall, and protect the brain-based skills that are essential for full, rewarding, and independent living. From simple and specific changes in eating to ways to challenge your brain, this is guidance that will pay dividends for you and your future. [LEARN MORE](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=522376633&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=4029671332&scheduleID=2570475&placementScheduleId=2570475&adItemScheduleId=2486859&adSize=0x0&metadata=%7B%22promotion_name%22%3A%22CFT1%22%7D&matches=%5B%22mind%22%2C%22mental%22%5D&mt=1776069198276474&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&request_uuid=464fa3de-a106-47b4-8aa0-d793cf93db41&hc=73413f4ab2c3dbfbffbce8c67602c25088c3cb7a&location=) After a man becomes dependent on alcohol, he will usually develop withdrawal symptoms such as headache, nausea and vomiting, anxiety, and fatigue if he can't get a drink. **Get help.** Your doctor can help diagnose alcohol use disorder through a series of screening questions. Treatment consists of a combination of psychotherapy, and medication, and participation in self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. **Image: © Kar3k4/Getty Images** ## About the Author  Matthew Solan, Former Executive Editor, [*Harvard Men's Health Watch*](https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens) Matthew Solan is the former executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical … [See Full Bio](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/matthew-solan) [View all posts by Matthew Solan](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/matthew-solan) ## About the Reviewer  Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing Dr. Howard LeWine is a practicing internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Chief Medical Editor at Harvard Health Publishing, and editor in chief of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. [See Full Bio](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/howard-lewine-md) [View all posts by Howard E. LeWine, MD](https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/howard-lewine-md) Share [Share this page to Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&display=popup) [Share this page to X](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&text=How%20to%20recognize%20the%20signs%20of%20mental%20health%20issues%20-%20Harvard%20Health&tw_p=tweetbutton&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues) [Share this page via Email](<mailto:?subject=Great health news for you from the experts at Harvard&body=Check out this link from Harvard Health: How to recognize the signs of mental health issues - https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/how-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues>) Copy this page to clipboard Print This Page Click to Print ## Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. 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 People too often don't recognize that an underlying mental health problem is why they feel unwell. A study published in the September 2023 issue of *The Lancet Psychiatry* analyzed data collected over 20-plus years from more than 150,000 adults across 29 countries. The results showed that about half of people will develop at least one mental disorder by age 75. Among men, the most common disorders were depression, phobias, and alcohol use disorder. Why may this be the case? "Older adults are vulnerable to mental disorders because they are exposed to many life-changing and traumatic events like health issues, the death of loved ones, and physical limitations," says Dr. Ronald Kessler, a professor of health care policy at Harvard Medical School and one of the study's co-leaders. "Many also don't recognize the signs of a mental disorder and thus don't seek medical help, which can make the disorder worse." You might also be interested in...  Wondering if you can affect your brain health, memory, and cognitive function? Learn in our course about simple lifestyle changes you can make to optimize your cognitive fitness—and stay mentally sharp\! [Learn More\!](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=522904043&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=4029671332&scheduleID=2570475&placementScheduleId=2570475&adItemScheduleId=2806028&adSize=0x0&metadata=%5B%5D&matches=%5B%22mental%22%5D&mt=1776069198276218&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&request_uuid=464fa3de-a106-47b4-8aa0-d793cf93db41&hc=e11ebc835153f61521c233ae4220d83ea7295beb&location=) Here are the warning signs and symptoms for depression, phobias, and alcohol use disorder that men should look out for. "Men should find comfort in knowing that they are not alone when dealing with a mental disorder," says Dr. Kessler. "Effective treatments are available, so they don't have to spend their life in pain." ## Depression A depressed man may gain or lose weight, eat more or less than usual, have difficulty concentrating, and have trouble sleeping or sleep more than usual. He also may battle fatigue and low energy, so even small tasks may appear impossible to manage. Other symptoms of depression include one or more of the following: - persistent sad or "empty" mood - loss of enjoyment in favorite activities - feelings of hopelessness or pessimism - feelings of worthlessness and guilt about a specific life experience or in general - increased boredom and apathy - trouble concentrating or making decisions - restlessness or irritability. **Get help.** Speak with your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms most days for two weeks or longer. The doctor can refer you for counseling, prescribe an antidepressant, or both. ## Phobias A phobia is a persistent, excessive, unrealistic fear of an object, person, animal, activity, or situation. Phobias are a type of anxiety disorder. You may be interested in...  Now you can tap into advice from Harvard Medical School experts to uncover how your brain changes as you age and discover the best ways to keep your mind and memory strong. Improving Memory is a fascinating look at how your mind works, paired with the best ways to protect your memory. You’ll discover: Steps you can take now to reduce your risk of dementia, the normal limitation of short-term memory that has nothing to do with memory loss, why aging isn’t always the culprit behind memory loss, 9 key differences between normal memory lapses and signs of dementia, 17 ways to improve memory and protect your brain, and more\! [LEARN MORE](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=524387919&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=4029671332&scheduleID=2570475&placementScheduleId=2570475&adItemScheduleId=3708161&adSize=0x0&metadata=%7B%22Promotion_name%22%3A%22IPM2%22%7D&matches=%5B%22mind%22%5D&mt=1776069198276374&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&request_uuid=464fa3de-a106-47b4-8aa0-d793cf93db41&hc=df8644d9dfbd01e12c8646d45f8237332872e5e1&location=) A man with a phobia either tries to avoid the object or situation that triggers the fear or endures it with great anxiety and distress. He also may overreact to a potential threat. Some examples of common phobias are fear of heights, public places, social situations, or closed spaces. Physical symptoms may include rapid heartbeat, shallow or rapid breathing, sweating, dizziness, upset stomach (cramps, nausea, diarrhea), headaches, and general pains. (Symptoms such as these also may lead to a diagnosis of panic disorder.) It's also common for men with an anxiety disorder to suffer from depression and struggle with low self-esteem. **Get help.** The first step to dealing with a phobia is to try to identify the underlying cause and possible stressors. You may be referred to a mental health professional for evaluation and treatment. Treatment for an anxiety disorder often includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy. ## Alcohol use disorder Today many experts recommend that people limit their alcohol use to no more than a single standard drink per day. In the United States, a standard drink is approximately 12 ounces of regular beer (5% alcohol by volume, or ABV), 5 ounces of wine (12% ABV), or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits (40% ABV). Moderate drinking wanders into excessive alcohol use disorder when someone regularly drinks more than he planned and continues to drink despite the concerns of others and frequent attempts to cut down or quit. He also may indulge in binge drinking (consuming five or more drinks on one occasion). You may be interested in...  In this Special Health Report, Harvard Medical School doctors share a six-step program that can yield important and lasting results. Together these “super 6” can strengthen your intellectual prowess, promote your powers of recall, and protect the brain-based skills that are essential for full, rewarding, and independent living. From simple and specific changes in eating to ways to challenge your brain, this is guidance that will pay dividends for you and your future. [LEARN MORE](https://servedbyadbutler.com/redirect.spark?MID=186626&plid=2650436&setID=812675&channelID=0&CID=862911&banID=522376633&PID=0&textadID=0&tc=1&rnd=4029671332&scheduleID=2570475&placementScheduleId=2570475&adItemScheduleId=2486859&adSize=0x0&metadata=%7B%22promotion_name%22%3A%22CFT1%22%7D&matches=%5B%22mind%22%2C%22mental%22%5D&mt=1776069198276474&spr=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.harvard.edu%2Fmind-and-mood%2Fhow-to-recognize-the-signs-of-mental-health-issues&request_uuid=464fa3de-a106-47b4-8aa0-d793cf93db41&hc=73413f4ab2c3dbfbffbce8c67602c25088c3cb7a&location=) After a man becomes dependent on alcohol, he will usually develop withdrawal symptoms such as headache, nausea and vomiting, anxiety, and fatigue if he can't get a drink. **Get help.** Your doctor can help diagnose alcohol use disorder through a series of screening questions. Treatment consists of a combination of psychotherapy, and medication, and participation in self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. **Image: © Kar3k4/Getty Images**