As the health calendar has cycled from Mental Health to Men’s Health Awareness Month we pause to take advantage of a unique segue to start an important conversation. While Men’s Health is often generalized into areas like prostate, sexual and heart health, it’s important to note the alarming statistics regarding Mental Health in men. In fact, men account for 75-80% of deaths by suicide worldwide with suicide being among the leading cause of death for men under 50.

Societal expectations, beginning in early childhood, often encourage men to be “tough” and avoid showing emotion, but it is crucial to recognize that mental health knows no gender boundaries. Men, just like women, face their own unique set of challenges when it comes to mental well-being. Let’s explore the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help provide guidance on seeking support.

The Stigma

Society has long enforced the notion that men should be strong, resilient, and impervious to emotional struggles – the “rock”. Consequently, many men feel compelled to hide their feelings and often suffer in silence, fearing judgment or appearing weak. But it is vital to understand that experiencing emotional difficulties is a part of being human, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The Impact

The stigma surrounding men’s mental health has severe consequences. Men may hesitate to reach out for support, leading to a lack of diagnosis and treatment for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders. This reluctance can compound symptoms, impacting their overall well-being, relationships, performance and quality of life. This is likely a key contributor of in the suicide rate being 4 times higher among men than women in the U.S.

The Challenges

Men may face specific mental health challenges due to societal expectations and gender roles. Some of these challenges include difficulties in expressing emotions, pressure to conform to traditional masculine ideals, work-related stress, and feelings of isolation. Recognizing these challenges allows for a more targeted approach to addressing men’s mental health needs.

Breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health requires collective effort. Here are some ways to contribute to this important cause:

Education and Awareness: Promote awareness campaigns, share accurate information, and challenge stereotypes about men’s mental health. Encourage open conversations and dispel myths that hinder progress.

Normalize Help-Seeking: Highlight positive examples of men seeking support for their mental well-being. Normalize therapy, counseling, and other mental health resources as valuable tools for personal growth and self-care.

Encourage Emotional Expression: Encourage emotional expression and vulnerability among men. Create safe spaces where men can share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs without judgment.

Seeking Support for Men’s Mental Health

Encourage men to seek professional help from therapists, psychologists, or counselors. These professionals can provide a confidential and supportive environment to address mental health concerns. Connect men with peer support groups or men’s mental health organizations. These groups offer a sense of community, validation, and shared experiences, fostering a supportive environment for growth and healing. Emphasize the importance of self-care activities such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, healthy eating, and stress management techniques like meditation or mindfulness. These practices contribute to overall mental well-being.

Breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health is a crucial step towards creating a society that supports the well-being of ALL individuals. By challenging stereotypes, encouraging open conversations, and providing accessible support, we can empower men to prioritize their mental health without fear or shame. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, and together, we can create a world where every man feels comfortable in prioritizing his mental well-being.

Sources

• Statistics Canada. (2020). Leading causes of death, total population, by age group. https://doi.org/10.25318/1310039401-eng

• Mental Health Foundation. (2021). Men and mental health. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/m/men-and-mental-health

• Walby, F. A., Myhre, M. V., & Kildahl, A. T. (2018). Contact With Mental Health Services Prior to Suicide: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Psychiatric Services, 69(7), 751–759. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.201700475

• Luoma, J. B., Martin, C. E., & Pearson, J. L. (2002). Contact With Mental Health and Primary Care Providers Before Suicide: A Review of the Evidence. American Journal of Psychiatry, 159(6), 909–916. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.159.6.909

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