Every June, Men’s Mental Health Month puts into the spotlight the emotional and mental problems so many men suffer through—but not outwardly show. Since more openly talked about in society, mental health, men’s problems specifically are still woefully closeted. This month is a timely reminder to heighten awareness among the public, de-stigmatize, and encourage men to come forward for help without shame or fear.
Learning About The Men’s Mental Health Crisis
Mental illness is colorblind. Men are far less likely to notice and tend to theirs, though. Suicide, the number one killer of men worldwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) says, is one of the reasons men are less likely to go to mental care centers despite such fatal statistics. Men in most countries are three or four times more likely than women to commit suicide. Ironically, though, men are less prone to going to mental therapy clinics in the face of such fatal statistics.
Why? Due to a combination of psychological, social, and cultural influences. Boys are trained early on to bottle up their feelings. “Man up,” “don’t cry,” and “boys don’t show weakness” slogans send the toxic message that suppressing one’s feelings is synonymous with being masculine. It is this learned behavior that creates bottled-up emotions, hidden trauma, and untreated mental illness in the long run.
Common Mental Illnesses Incidence among Men
Men carry most of the same mental illnesses as women but perhaps in different ways or undetected. Some of the most common are:
- Depression
Depressed men don’t necessarily present themselves as sad. They tend more often to be seen as angry, irritable, risk-takers, or drug users.
- Anxiety
Stress from work, economic troubles, and domestic responsibilities can provide chronic stress for men. They normally hide behind a mask of being “in charge.”
- Addiction
Instead of working through the origin of emotional pain, most men use alcohol, drugs, or other dependencies as an escape or self-medication source.
- Suicidal Thoughts
Men won’t be assisted or discuss emotions, so they will get suicidal and no one will even have any idea. Suicide prevention is therefore a top priority for Men’s Mental Health Month.
Warning Signs To Watch Out For
Identify male signs of distress in order to avoid a crisis. Warning signs are:
- Sudden mood shift or temper tantrum
- Avoidance of friends and relatives
- Shift in sleep routine or dietary habit
- Greater consumption of alcohol or drugs
- Inconsistency in job or activities
- Excessive complaining of being helpless or burdened
How To Care For Men’s Mental Health?
Mental illness is not an individualistic problem. Friends, families, co-workers, and communities of men alike have a responsibility to offer a safety net of culture and support to men.
- Create open communication
Get the men in your life to feel at ease discussing the way they feel. Give them an open, non-judgmental ear to listen to.
- Promote professional assistance
Therapists, counselors, and support groups are great places to learn about stress, trauma, and coping skills emotionally.
- Create safe space
In the home or in the office, making a space where the human can let his guard down and relax is revolutionary.
- Educate yourself and others
Learn about men’s mental health, talk about it, and raise awareness on Men’s Mental Health Month to reduce stigma and call to action.
Self-Care Tips For Men
Taking your mental health as seriously as your physical health is also key. Some of the things men can do to make their wellbeing more in mind are:
- Speak it out: A pal, therapist, or support group—talking makes the emotional burden easier.
- Get moving: Exercise has definite mental health advantages and also reduces stress levels.
- Reduce substances: Don’t do drugs or have a beverage as an escape.
- Rest and recharge: Rest well, take breaks, and fit in some fun stuff.
- Set boundaries: Practice saying no and guarding your energy.
Moving Toward a Healthier Future
Even if we have made a couple of steps in the right direction, there is still a long way to go. The Men’s mental health month is not only a campaign, but a necessity. It is one of the building blocks on how we are approaching masculinity, de-stigmatize illness and build a society where mental health is vital. If you are struggling, keep in mind that you are not the only one. It is not weakness to find your inner voice, but it is a promise of unimaginable strength.
Conclusion
Body and mind are equally valuable, and when it is Men’s mental health, it is time for shedding some light on men’s unique problems. Awareness, support and openness can help us in empowering men to a healthy, and vibrant lives both mentally and emotionally. Break the silence and show up for each other. Give priority to mental health – not only during Men’s mental health month but always.
Helinika Staff