How do men with depression during the mid life transition, navigate stigma?

Background: Depression is the second highest cause of disability worldwide. People who experience depression also experience stigma. Depression is a gendered diagnosis, and adds another layer of stigma for men who suffer it. The transition to middle adulthood is considered a time of crisis (Levinson 1977). This research will be part of the potential contribution of a larger project called ‘Navigating Stigma to Build Real Communities’ which will describe the experience of social inclusion in Ireland. Objectives: This study highlights how men with depression, aged 35-50, navigate stigmatisation in their daily lives. This qualitative study explored the subjective experience of three men, living in Ireland, who self identified as suffering from depression. Methods: Data was collected using a semi-structured interview and the subjective experience of these three interviewees was the source of raw data. These were audio recorded and later transcribed. Thematic analysis was carried out. Results: Analysis yielded two overarching categories representing: strategies for navigating stigma and masculinity. Three subcategories emerged from the data highlighting how masculinity can be connected to productivity, control and vulnerability and four subcategories emerged in relation to how these men navigated stigma. Conclusions: This research will contribute to the body of knowledge around the experience of depression for men and provide a rationale for the design of more gender specific interventions in practice. Occupational therapists can play a role in promoting accessible and non gender threatening interventions. The importance of considering the role of masculinity and vulnerability in men’s mental health programmes is highlighted.