Depression does not always look like overwhelming sadness or visible despair. For many men, it shows up in subtle, unexpected ways that can easily be mistaken for personality changes, stress, or simply “having a bad week”. Because society often teaches men to appear strong, composed, or unemotional, many struggle silently, masking their pain behind behaviour that doesn’t resemble what most people associate with depression. READ MORE: Shatta Wale apologises to MC Kojo Manuel following an unexpected scuffle on stage Understanding these quiet signs is essential, not only for the men experiencing them, but also for the people who care about them. How to know a man is going through a lot 1. Irritability Replaces Sadness READ MORE: Daddy Lumba’s Abusuapanin defends GH₵30,000 withdrawal from bank account Instead of crying or appearing downcast, a man may become unusually quick-tempered or easily agitated. This can be a sign that the individual is externalizing painful feelings like despair or worthlessness, and it’s important to seek professional help if these emotions are persistent or overwhelming. Addressing the underlying mood disorder or stress is key to managing this symptom effectively. READ MORE: Arathejay breaks silence after PRESEC students boo him on stage: ‘I’ll still perform’ 2. He Becomes ‘Too Busy’ for What He Once Loved Activities that used to excite him suddenly feel exhausting or pointless, but he blames it on having “no time”. The person may stop making time for friends and family, not because of a sudden increase in their schedule, but because they feel emotionally distant or lack the desire for social engagement READ MORE: Black Sherif speaks after 2026 Grammy Awards nominations snub: ‘We need some education’ 3. His Health Starts Showing the Stress Unexplained aches, stomach issues, fatigue, or headaches can be physical manifestations of emotional strain. READ MORE: Black Sherif reveals how he discovered his family connection with Amakye Dede When an individual’s health begins showing signs of stress, it manifests through a range of physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms. Chronic stress can lead to serious health conditions if left unaddressed. 4. Overworking Without Real Productivity He may bury himself in work yet accomplish little, using busyness as a shield from his feelings. READ MORE: Daddy Lumba’s Abusuapanin defends GH₵30,000 withdrawal from bank account Overworking without real productivity, often called toxic productivity, can be a sign of high-functioning depression or an unhealthy coping mechanism to avoid underlying issues. While the individual may appear busy and productive on the outside, their actual output is diminished due to impaired cognitive function, and the behavior often exacerbates mental and physical health issues. 5. Laughter No Longer Comes Easily Jokes, playful teasing, or shared memories no longer spark joy the way they once did. READ MORE: Daddy Lumba’s team breaks silence on rumours about his death and hospital care “laughter no longer comes easily in depression” is generally accurate, as a loss of interest and pleasure in previously enjoyed activities (a symptom known as anhedonia) is a core diagnostic feature of depression The primary reason laughter becomes difficult is anhedonia, which is the inability to feel pleasure or enjoyment from activities that were once pleasurable, including humor. 6.He Says He’s ‘Fine’ — but His Behaviour Doesn’t Match READ MORE: Shatta Wale apologises to MC Kojo Manuel following an unexpected scuffle on stage He repeats “I’m fine” as a default response, even when everything indicates otherwise. This often manifests differently in men than in women due to societal expectations around masculinity. Instead of expressing sadness, men with depression may exhibit behavioral changes such as anger, irritability, reckless actions, social withdrawal, and physical symptoms. 7.His Sleep Pattern Becomes Erratic READ MORE: Sarkodie to host Rapperholic 2026 in London, vows to bring Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy Sleeping far more than usual or barely sleeping at all are common indicators of underlying depression. Sleep disturbances are among the most common symptoms of major depressive disorder, affecting as many as three-quarters of patients. Insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or early morning awakening) is the most frequent symptom, found in up to 80% of individuals with depression.Hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness or long sleep durations) occurs in about 40% of young adults with depression and 15% to 20% of depressed patients overall.Irregular sleep-wake cycles (constantly changing bedtimes and wake times) can also increase the risk of depression and worsen mood. READ MORE: ‘We deserve it’ – Black Sherif sets his eyes on TGMA 2026 Artiste of the Year 8.Increased Drinking or Risk-Taking Alcohol, reckless driving, or impulsive decisions may become unhealthy coping mechanisms. often as a form of self-medication or a manifestation of generalized agitation and poor judgment. This is particularly common in men, who may exhibit anger, irritability, or turn to substance use rather than expressing sadness. 9.Social Withdrawal He slowly distances himself from friends, family, and activities, preferring isolation. Avoiding contact: Staying away from friends, family, and colleagues. Canceling plans: Saying no to social invitations and commitments.