The stigma surrounding men’s mental health prevents many men from seeking the help they need. This is a serious problem that literally kills men.
Mental illness is often seen as a weakness, especially in men. Seeking treatment for mental health problems can be seen as a sign of weakness or failure. This stigma prevents many men from seeking the help they need.
This is a serious problem because mental illness can be fatal. Men die by suicide more often than women. In fact, according to the CDC, “suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in the United States in 2019—47,511 deaths overall.”
Men’s mood disorders, clinical depression, suicidal ideation, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, etc. There are many reasons for reluctance to seek treatment for mental health problems such as They may not want to appear weak or vulnerable. They may worry about looking like a failure. They may be afraid of what others will think.
Whatever the reason, if you’re struggling with mental health issues and learning how to take a mental health day for your health, it’s important to seek help. There is no shame in asking for help. Mental illness is a real and serious problem. It’s nothing to be ashamed of.
5.3% of men have symptoms of depression. According to the World Health Organization, “Alcohol-related deaths account for 7.7% of all global deaths among men and 2.6% of all deaths among women.” Men also use drugs two to three times more than women.
Depression and suicide are among the leading causes of death among men, and yet men are still less likely than women to seek mental health treatment.
Stigma Around Men’s Mental Health
While we have made progress in reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, there is still much to be done in terms of normalizing the idea of seeking help. This is especially true for men who feel ashamed or guilty about admitting they need help.
Part of the problem may be that some men see asking for help as a sign of weakness. This outdated way of thinking must be changed to better support the mental health of all people.
Mental illness should be viewed in the same way as any other physical condition—it’s not a personal failing, it’s something that requires medical attention. By breaking down the barriers that prevent men from seeking help, we can create a more supportive and inclusive society.
Men’s mental health is an important issue that is often overlooked. International Men’s Day celebrates men and their mental health, as well as Men’s Mental Health Month. These are great ways to start breaking down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and encourage more open discussion about the issue. By raising awareness and encouraging men to seek help, we can make a real difference to this important issue. June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month.
Destroying Toxic Masculinity
It’s not just asking for help that men struggle with. The American Psychological Association found that some men also have more difficulty forming social relationships. This may be due to the way men are taught to be strong and calm. According to research, this model of masculinity can lead to increased rates of depression and substance abuse.
If we want to help men before they reach breaking point, we need to change the way we view masculinity. Emphasizing healthy coping resources and emotional connections can make all the difference.
Ending the Stigma of Men’s Mental Health
Addressing the stigma surrounding men seeking help is important. Often men feel that even when they are dealing with physical ailments, they have to overcome it alone. This can lead to denial that there is a problem at all.
We can all provide more transparency about mental health and substance abuse issues. No one is immune to stress. Talking to others about how it affects you can foster empathy, companionship and support – all of which combat the feelings of isolation that addiction and mental health issues can develop. Depression includes many types of depression and can manifest itself in different forms.
Much of this also applies to education. We need people to understand that these are medical problems, that there are good treatments, and that there is hope. Untreated mental health problems can turn into physical ailments very quickly, especially when people self-medicate with alcohol and other substances.
Awareness and education play the biggest role in terms of what can be done to help people as soon as possible and improve gender stereotypes. People should be willing to talk to their loved ones and ask for help. There are all these wonderful options that can help, but first, they have to be willing to try them.
When to get help
If you think someone you care about is struggling or may need help, look for these signs that outside help is needed:
- Mood Changes
- Stages of grief/Going through the grieving process
- Decreased work performance
- Weight gain or loss
- Sadness, loss of interest or enjoyment of things once enjoyed
- Headaches
- Stomach Problems
If you recognize any of these symptoms in a loved one, remember that asking them for help can be a sign of strength rather than weakness. Try to make an appointment with a mental health provider or a substance use disorder specialist (in cases where alcohol or other drugs are being used to self-medicate).
There is hope. Help is available. Educate yourself or a loved one about addiction and mental health issues. Participate in peer support groups or family support, such as Al-Anon, Families Anonymous, or a support group for men and women struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
To reduce stigma, we need to get the message out that it’s okay to ask for help, whether it’s for yourself, your loved ones, or anyone you need. For those who have overcome mental health obstacles in their own lives, don’t be afraid to share your stories.
If you think you or a loved one is in an immediate crisis, call National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for resources and support 800-273-8255.
