Boy Oh Boy
Understanding men's mental health is a critical public health priority that requires urgent attention. The stark statistics paint a troubling picture..
The approach to men’s and women’s mental health in society is influenced by various factors, including social norms, stigmas, and access to care. Research indicates that women are more likely to experience depression and anxiety, emphasizing the need for a gender-specific approach to mental health care. Societal expectations and traditional gender roles can impact the way men and women experience and express mental health issues. There is a growing recognition of the need to address men’s mental health, with some studies highlighting the importance of understanding the social determinants and implications for mental health services for men. It is essential to promote gender-inclusive approaches to mental health care, address stigmas, and provide support that is sensitive to the unique challenges faced by both men and women. By fostering open discussions and increasing awareness, society can work towards a more equitable and supportive approach to addressing the mental health needs of all individuals.
Mental health disorders affect both men and woman, but men are far less likely to talk about their feelings and to seek professional help. Understanding men’s mental health is essential for promoting healthy relationships, addressing stigmas, and providing support.
I have personally been witness to the dramatic outcome of several dear friends and loved ones whom failed to receive the proper understanding, support, and helped necessary for their emotional and metal well being. One of them being my boyfriend Nick.
I remain mindful of the fact that no matter man or woman, the person in the spot of desperation has to be self aware and have the desire to seek and implement professional guidance. I think it is critical to end the stigma preventing men from seeking mental health treatment. Struggling with mental health problems does not make you weak or any less of a man.
Shoutout to all the men going through a lot, with no one to turn to, because this world wrongly taught our males to mask their emotions. -Brandon Brayshaw
Things We Need To Normalize For Men:
Showing Emotions
Asking For Help
Going To Therapy
Speaking Up
Not Being “Ok”
Regular Chats About Mental Health
Practicing Self- Care
Crying
Having Fears & Doubts
Men's Mental Health Should Be Acknowledged Too!
Men Have Panic Attacks
Men Have Trauma
Men Cry
Men Have Anxiety
Men Feel Emotional
Men Self-Harm
Men Have Eating Disorders
Men Are Abused
Men Have Insecurities
Men Have Body Image Issues
Men Go To Therapy
Men Deserve Love & Care
Men Deserve Support
Most men would rather talk about anything other than their feelings. Pride, ego, and fear of judgement are only a select few on the list of contributing factors that hinder men from seeking proper help and support.
Things Men Do To Make Mental Health Struggles Worse:
Denial
Reaching For Drugs / Alcohol
Shutting Down
Blame Others
It is of the greatest importance as friends, family, or partners of the Men in our lives we are able to identify with some of the following troubling symptoms…
Anger
Irritability
Aggressiveness
Noticeable Change In Mood, Energy Level, And Appetite
Difficulty Sleeping Or Sleeping Too Much
Difficulty Concentrating
Feeling Restless Or On Edge
Increased Worry
Feeling stressed
Need For Alcohol Or Drugs
Sadness
Hopelessness
Suicidal Thoughts
Men’s Mental Health Facts:
Over 6 million men suffer from depression each year, but it often goes undiagnosed
510,000 men die from suicide globally each year
Male deaths represent 79% of all suicides in the US (CDC)
Roughly 3,020,000 men have a panic disorder, agoraphobia, or another type of phobia
90% of people diagnosed with schizophrenia are men around the age of 30
It’s estimated that 35% of those with binge-eating disorder are males
The highest suicide rates in the U.S are with Caucasian men
About 1 in 5 men will develop an alcohol dependency during their lifetime. Men are 3 time more likely than women to become alcohol dependent
References:
Stigma On Men’s Mental Health:
More males die of suicide than females each year
Suicide & depression are in the top 10 causes of male deaths
Often, men are taught not to show emotion and hide/suppress them
Traditional gender roles put pressure on men and lead to mental struggles
More males suffer from substance abuse
Often society expects men to be strong and quiet
The importance of loved ones in supporting individuals struggling with mental health issues cannot be overstated. Family members, friends, and spouses play a crucial role in providing emotional and practical support, creating a supportive environment, and advocating for their loved one’s needs. They can help reduce stigma and isolation, encourage individuals to seek professional help, and contribute to their long-term recovery.
If You Are A Man And Need A Reminder:
You Do Not Need To “Man Up”
It’s Okay To Show Your Emotions
Speaking Up Is Courage
You Are Not A Burden
It’s Not Unmanly To Struggle
There Is Help Out There
Suffering Does Not Make You Weak
You Are Never Alone
Addressing this "silent epidemic" requires a multi-pronged approach. We must work to destigmatize men's mental health, empower them to seek help, and ensure that healthcare providers are equipped to recognize and treat the nuanced expressions of mental illness in men. By fostering open dialogues, expanding access to tailored support services, and challenging rigid gender stereotypes, we can create a culture that encourages men to prioritize their emotional wellbeing and get the care they need.
Ultimately, improving men's mental health is not just a men's issue - it benefits us all. Healthier, more supported men translate to stronger families, communities, and societies. The time has come to shine a light on this critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of public health. Together, we can work to save lives and build a future where no man suffers in silence.
Additional Resources & Helpful Tools
Positive Male Mind
Mental health problems affect both men and women, in fact, every one in four of us. However, it has been widely accepted for some time that men are much less likely to seek help from a doctor or mental health specialist, as they traditionally expect themselves to be competitive and successful, tough and self-reliant and can find it difficult to admit that they are feeling fragile and vulnerable. This book aims to build on the current progressive movement by supporting men and those that care about them - be that a partner, friend, family member or colleague - by providing insight, advice, and tips on what can be done at a very practical level to make men's mental health much more positive.
Breaking The Stigma
Defining men's mental health is a critical step in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues in men. Men's mental health refers to the overall wellbeing of men's emotional, psychological, and social functioning. It encompasses a broad range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anger management, emotional regulation, addiction, substance abuse, relationship and marriage counseling, stress and burnout prevention, suicide prevention, crisis intervention, body image, self-esteem, career and workplace mental health, spirituality, and mindfulness practices.
