Men’s Mental Health Month, which is marked in June, aims to dispel deeply rooted cultural stigmas, raise awareness of the problems men encounter with mental health, and promote candid discussions about men’s mental health.
This holiday raises awareness of mental health issues and provides information and assistance for men who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, or even suicidal thoughts. Men’s Mental Health Month offers a chance to de-stigmatize asking for assistance, draw attention to the services that are available, and cultivate a culture that supports men’s mental health, all of which will eventually improve overall wellness and men’s quality of life worldwide.
WHY MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH IS IMPORTANT
Males frequently self-treat through addictive behaviours like substance misuse because of stigma, social expectations, and macho norms. Men use various illicit drugs more than women do, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The Mayo Clinic states that compulsive gambling is an addictive behaviour that affects more men than women. It is another harmful, risky behaviour that men engage in to deal with their mental health problems. Further evidence linking mental illness to men’s intimate partner relationships, including an increased risk of suicide, comes from a study that was published in SSM — Qualitative Research in Health.
Improving men’s mental health is essential to helping men who experience higher levels of loneliness and hopelessness as well as to removing obstacles that prevent men from getting the assistance they need.
Why do males avoid discussing mental health issues?
Men are less likely to talk about or seek treatment for mental health issues than women, in part because of societal expectations and established gender roles. Gender stereotypes about women, such as the expectation that they should act or appear a specific way, are known to have negative effects on them. However, it’s crucial to recognise that expectations and preconceptions can harm men as well.
Men are frequently expected to provide for their families and to be strong, powerful, and in charge. Though they aren’t always negative traits, they may make it more difficult for males to ask for assistance and be vulnerable.
Men may also be less inclined to discuss their mental health with friends or family and more prone to utilise potentially dangerous coping mechanisms like drugs or alcohol. But according to study, males will receive assistance that is easy to get, relevant, and interesting, and that also suits their preferences. Men’s Sheds, for instance, offer social areas where men may meet and converse, frequently over useful activities.
What are the symptoms of mental disorders in men?
1.Thinking too much or acting compulsively
2.Ideas or actions that cause problems in the workplace, family, or social life
3.Abnormal thoughts or actions that worry other individuals
4.Suicidal thoughts, efforts, or thoughts of death
5.Inability to fall asleep or excessive sleep
6.Having trouble focusing, being restless, or being tense
7.elevated anxiety or tension
8.Misuse of drugs, alcohol, or both
Prevention in men mental health
- Talk to your loved ones, especially when things are unpleasant.
- If you notice any signs of poor mental health, get help right once.
- Maintain your current level of care to avoid relapsing into depression or other mental health issues.
- Discover how to reduce stress by practicing mindfulness, meditation, creative expression, or other techniques.
- Make healthy lifestyle decisions by eating right, getting enough sleep, and exercising.
See a therapist if you have concerns like low self-esteem or childhood trauma, as these might lead to mental health issues in the future. - The health sector may make a substantial contribution by starting and supporting multisectoral collaboration and coordination where necessary, as well as by advocating for and integrating promotion and prevention initiatives within health services.