Mental health conditions are more commonly found in women compared to men but men experiencing such conditions are often overlooked when it comes to receiving proper mental health care or diagnosis. Various factors contribute to this trend, including societal expectations for men to exhibit strength and resilience by avoiding seeking help.
The stereotype that men should remain silent about their struggles is deeply ingrained; perpetuating the misconception that opening up is a sign of weakness or a lack of masculinity.
It is common for men to experience depression, anxiety, or other mental health illnesses, and there is no shame in seeking help. Factors such as culture, fatherhood, race, and socioeconomic status can also play a role in a man’s mental health journey. These stigmas have a significant impact, with nearly 1 in 10 men experiencing depression or anxiety, yet less than half will seek treatment. Additionally, more than 4 times as many men as women die by suicide each year.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that males are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to females. Additionally, high income countries exhibit the highest suicide rates among males.
Despite the increasing openness in discussing mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress in society, men’s mental health remains a neglected topic. Approximately 40% of men in India choose not to openly address their mental health concerns due to the fear of being stigmatized.
Throughout history, societal norms have defined men as symbols of strength, resilience, and emotional restraint. Factors such as biological influences, particularly testosterone, play a role in shaping men’s emotional reactions.
When experiencing depression, men tend to exhibit aggression and anger rather than sadness, unlike women who are more inclined to acknowledge their feelings of sadness and vulnerability. As a result, many men suffer silently, isolating themselves and turning to substance abuse as they confront their inner battles without the necessary support. This lack of support increases the risk of suicide among men, leading to a suicide rate that is 2.5 times higher in men compared to women.
Prevalent mental health conditions among men
Depression: Male depression is frequently overlooked. Each year, over six million men are affected by depression. While both men and women can suffer from depression, the symptoms manifest differently in each gender. Men are more likely to resort to substance abuse and exhibit aggression when experiencing depression.
Anxiety: Men also experience anxiety. Half of men are affected by anxiety disorders, panic attacks, agoraphobia, or other phobias. Symptoms may include muscle tension, headaches, sleep disturbances, anger, and irritability.
Bipolar Disorder: Men are just as susceptible to bipolar disorder as women, during both adolescence and adulthood. It ranks as the sixth leading cause of disability worldwide. Symptoms in men may include manic episodes, increased aggression, substance abuse, and more.
Schizophrenia: The majority of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 30 are men. Symptoms of this condition may include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and more.
Eating disorder: Women suffering from eating disorders often fixate on weight loss, while men focus on achieving a muscular physique. However, this may also be a mental health condition.
When these mental health conditions are not properly addressed, men may resort to alcohol and other substances as a means of coping. Men are nearly twice as likely as women to engage in binge drinking. Furthermore, they are at a significantly higher risk of suicide. This harmful approach to addressing men’s mental health concerns does more harm than good.
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It is important to prioritize Men’s Mental Health on par with physical health. Ignoring symptoms and suffering in silence can worsen the condition and complicate future treatment. Seeking professional help is crucial, and caregivers or family members should be vigilant of negative symptoms to encourage men in the family to seek assistance.
How to identify mental health issues among men
Observe behaviors such as impatience, frequent arguments, addictive tendencies, and disruptions within the family. Additionally, consulting with a mental health professional can provide a range of solutions and tailored strategies.
The choice between medications and therapies for treating mental health conditions varies depending on individual needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often effective for many individuals. Seeking professional help and discussing your concerns with loved ones is crucial. It is important to remember that there is no shame in seeking help.
Medications should only be taken under the guidance of a doctor. For optimal outcomes, experts suggest combining psychotherapy with antidepressants to enhance results. Psychotherapy offers a comprehensive approach that addresses the intricate and reactive aspects of mental health.
In order to address the obstacles linked to therapy, it is becoming increasingly clear that mental wellness goes beyond just formal counseling sessions. The younger generation is highlighting the importance of building supportive communities where individuals can freely discuss their thoughts and emotions without fear of criticism. Establishing environments that welcome vulnerability and promote open discussions about mental health plays a crucial role in reducing the stigma associated with it.
