Spencer McDonald Speaks on Men Do Not Ask for Directions

Women are diagnosed more frequently then men, probably because they tend to seek help when a woman realizes something is wrong.  Men are less likely to admit they have a problem and doctors are less likely to diagnose this problem in men. Men have a suicide rate 4 times greater than women.  Drug use/alcohol problems and excessive working mask depression in men.  Some of the symptoms include being irritable, angry, discouraged and confrontational.  Men are misdiagnosed with relationship/marriage problems, overworked/stressed out, withdrawn, distracted, preoccupied, confrontation and sometimes also suffer from other physical problems that can be traced back to depression.

     
The cost to the North American economy is in the billions every year.  It costs employers approximately $10,000 per year for an employee suffering from depression, these employees are absent 1.5 times more than the average employee, they have a 20% reduction in productivity, and are 1.5 times more likely to suffer a time lost accident (WCB claim).

In the early 90's, First Chicago Bank increased awareness of this disorder with managerial training, increase corporate awareness and a focus on depression.  The results of this campaign showed an increase of 1.8 employees per thousand being affected to 4.8 employees per thousand. But with treatment, their health care claims dropped $1,000,000 annually to $400,000 annually.

     
The treatment for depression is medication and counseling, lifestyle change, nutritional change and a support system is required.  Early detection is the key. First 2 to 3 months is critical.  For 15% of the people afflicted, it becomes a lifelong challenge.  Each of us can help our family, friends and co-workers who may suffer from this.  Acts now, don't remain silent.  Encourage them to visit and find a doctor that works for them.  Don't ignore talk of suicide. Don't blame them or discuss faking it with them.  Stay in touch with them, encourage them to get out, encourage activity. And always make sure you care for yourself.

Smart men do ask for directions, don't try to cope alone if you encounter this type of problem. Don't minimize the problem, find the right help, do research and learn about the problem, care for yourself.

    
Spencer explained that the difference between physiatrists and physiologists is the following.  A physiatrist is a medical doctor and some do provide counsel ling.  A physiologist is not a medical doctor but his job is to provide counseling.  Spencer can be reached at (604)603-0090 or email: spencer@thinkingdriver.com

Brenda Sheen thanked Spencer and gave him a copy of Frank Talk. Spencer said he looked forward to working with Brenda at the Delta branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association in the coming year