Women Ruminate More Than Men
Women are more likely to ruminate or focus on negative feelings and thoughts, when they are depressed than men. This can express itself through negative thoughts or internal conversations, bouts of crying without obvious reason, and rehashing problems obsessively. Men, on the other hand, tend to occupy themselves or distract themselves when they are suffering from depression.
Men With Depression Abuse Substance More Than Women
Men who are suffering from depression are also more likely to have or develop an alcohol or other substance abuse problem. In the case of men, drinking or using illegal drugs to self-medicate typically occurs prior to the onset of other depression symptoms. Meanwhile, women typically begin abusing alcohol or other substances after the onset of depression symptoms or as anxiety levels increase.
Women Are More Likely To Develop An Anxiety Disorder
Women are nearly twice as likely as men to develop an anxiety disorder, which can range from a clinical phobia to obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). About 60 percent of patients diagnosed with these conditions are female.
Depressed Men Turn To Risky Behaviors More Than Women
Men who are suffering from depression are also far more likely than women to throw themselves into work, sports or other activities to try and distract themselves, or to cope with their illness. They are also more likely to engage in risky behaviors - including smoking, reckless driving, gambling, or unsafe sex.