I’m Not Depressed…So Why Am I Feeling Like This? Bristol

By Dr Adrian Burt, Mental Health Lead GP in Bristol

John is a busy man in his 40s with a job, partner and family. Over weeks or months he became increasingly irritable, quick to anger, prone to mood swings, tearful or suddenly anxious about things that would not normally bother him. He even began drinking more alone to cope with the stress of life. He did not think he was depressed because he felt he had nothing to be depressed about…or did he?

*John represents a fictional case drawn from years of clinical experience.*

Recognising the Signs

According to Mental Health UK approximately one in eight men in the UK has a common mental health problem such as depression or anxiety but many suffer in silence. And indeed suicide is the biggest killer in men under the age of 50. John did not fit the stereotype of a man in a dark place yet he was experiencing classic symptoms: irritability, mood swings, tearfulness, heightened anxiety and coping through alcohol.

Challenges for Men

Mental wellness is equally important for men and women but it often gets overlooked in men for lots of reasons. Traditional gender roles and the pressure to appear strong and self sufficient create stigma around seeking help. Many men fear judgement or see asking for support as a sign of failure.

It’s OK to not be OK. There’s no shame in reaching out for help. Whether it’s your GP, a counsellor, or just a mate, opening up can make all the difference.

Supporting Recovery

In John’s case he was indeed depressed. After recognising this and talking it through with a professional he regained control and began to truly enjoy life again. If you recognise these feelings in yourself or a loved one then please reach out.

I’m an experienced NHS GP with a special interest in mental health and have been involved with the recent development and transformation of mental health services in my locality. I’ve  treated many people with mental health illness in my 14 years practice as an NHS GP.

There is so much information about mental health and wellbeing on the internet it can sometimes be difficult to know where to start.  Let us be your guide with the right help tailored for you.

Together with the team at Mayfield Clinic Bristol we can help you reset for 2026.

Book an appointment with me at Mayfield Clinic in Bristol to take the first step towards better mental wellbeing.