Men's Mental Health: A Concern for Every Month

The world’s emphasis on self-control, willpower, and patience may prevent men from asking for assistance and admitting they need support even when they notice warning signs. It applies to not only lifting heavy weights but also dealing with day-to-day emotions and mental challenges.

Read on to explore the intricate topic of men's mental health. This article highlights the difficulties and stigmas men encounter and the importance of having honest discussions and establishing support networks.

For a prolonged period, men’s mental health has been overlooked. But as time went on, researchers and mental health professionals started to pay more attention to this aspect of well-being. Below are a few insights and facts from men’s mental health statistics gathered recently:

The most common mental health issues in men are the following:

The stigma associated with men's mental health stems from stereotypes and specific societal norms. Men may feel pressured by cultural gender standards to adopt particular roles and behaviors of a “real man”, which may make it harder for them to acknowledge when they are having emotional pain.

Males are frequently supposed to be emotionally distant, tough, and not paying attention to tiredness and the signs of mental illnesses. This results in a reluctance to talk about emotional well-being or ask for help. Traditional ideas of masculinity also create a stereotype that men don’t need emotional support, preventing them from being open about their mental health challenges.

To overcome the stigma, society should advocate for a more accepting and understanding view of masculinity and mental health. It also includes supporting men in seeking treatment when necessary, dispelling damaging preconceptions, and offering resources and support for better awareness.

Untreated mental health issues can manifest in various ways, and the consequences can be significant. Some examples include:

Professional support is essential for addressing and managing men’s problems regarding mental health. Speaking with a psychologist, psychiatrist, or another mental health professional can help resolve particular problems and improve overall wellness. 

Psychotherapy sessions offer a private, secure setting where you may talk about your issues and create coping mechanisms. A healthcare professional may also prescribe medications to help reduce symptoms. However, it’s always recommended to combine pharmacological treatment with self-help strategies, such as mindfulness, healthy routines, and others.

Joining support groups can also be beneficial since it gives you the chance to interact with people who might be going through similar situations and exchange advice and support. Don't be hesitant to open up to friends and family about your difficulties; their understanding and emotional support can go a long way. 

The Mindfulness.com app offers topics to explore including how to relieve stress, ease anxiety, get better sleep, nurture self-compassion and improve focus amongst others. 

The men’s mental health statistics mentioned above demonstrate the bitter reality that men are far less likely to discuss mental health issues or even suicidal thoughts. It’s important to remember that getting professional help is a sign of strength rather than weakness, and it’s essential to prioritize your well-being.

If you don’t know where to start, consider calling a psychological hotline or talking to your primary care physician for referrals to specialists and assessments. You can get the support you need to get through current tough situations and develop coping skills to overcome other challenges.

Read more: The best mental health advice from books

Read more: Mental health: When you're not ready to ask for help

Keep up with the top stories from Reader's Digest by subscribing to our weekly newsletter