Lee's Story
Lee shares how having low testosterone levels affected his depression and how hiking become a key source of strength for him.
"Depression and anxiety in males is real. The 'suck it up and move on' strategy does not work."
About Lee:
I am a recovering accountant turned photographer. I live at the foot of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary, Canada. My days are spent dreaming of, planning or exploring the Canadian Rockies from the Valley Floor to the tops of the peaks. My love affair for the Rockies inspired me to create an adventure goal I named Adventure Fifty 3s. Over 3 years (starting November 2020), my goal is to summit 50 peaks, explore 50 glaciers and experience 50 adventures below the peaks.
WHAT WAS THE MAJOR TURNING POINT IN YOUR RECOVERY FROM DEPRESSION?
Frustration with feeling down and not being motivated to do anything. Realizing I needed to change my daily habits and move on from them. This included getting a physical done with my doctor. Through this physical I learned my testosterone levels were at ultra-low levels. Addressing the physical side allowed me to better address the emotional side.
WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT REALLY HELPED?
Testosterone levels (as noted above)
- Understanding and dealing with the emotional side of depression is absolutely key but we cannot forget that in men, depression can often be a physical issue that we need to understand and treat accordingly.
Mountain Therapy days with friends and or family
- There is just something about the fresh mountain air, beauty and ruggedness of the peaks, the sense of accomplishment in completing an adventure and hanging out with friends and family that is so therapeutic.
Talking through stresses of daily life with someone
- Including venting just for the sake of venting. Then move on and not dwell on it. As much as our inner voices think they are angels, they are devils in disguise most times. Breathe deeply a few times, thank them for their caring and move on.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER GUYS FIGHTING DEPRESSION?
- Understand both the potential physical and emotional causes of your depression. Through my experience with my own depression, I have learned that testosterone for adult males is declining on average over time and that our stressful lives, eating habits and lack of physical activity are causing the levels to be lower. It is a simple test. Get it. If the levels are fine, then move on to understanding the emotional side. If not, get treated. You will be in a better position to deal with the emotional side of your challenges.
- Depression and anxiety in males is real. The ‘suck it up and move on’ strategy does not work. Be courageous and speak up. Get help.
- Find your version of Mountain Therapy days. Heck use it if it helps. We need an activity or thing to look forward to on a regular basis to help fend off the evils of our voices.
Lee Nordbye, Calgary, Alberta, Canada