Men and Mental health: uncovering the pretentiousness

“There is no mind over matter. The mind is matter. You don’t get over an illness by not talking about it. It isn’t weak to ask for help. It isn’t weak to want to survive. It isn’t a character flaw to experience bad things.”

Mental health problems can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race or social background. Despite this, however, studies have shown that certain mental illnesses affect men and women differently. And the way both genders cope with mental health issues or ask support is different.

Nearly 1 in 10 men experience depression and anxiety: According to a poll of 21,000 American men by researchers at the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), nearly one in ten men reported experiencing some form of depression or anxiety, but less than half sought treatment.

On average, however, more women are diagnosed with common mental health problems than men; the most worrying finding is that the rate of male suicide is significantly higher.

This suggests that men are suffering from mental distress, but may not be receiving (or indeed asking for) the help they need.

What makes them not ask for help?

Societal expectations and traditional gender roles play a role in why men are less likely to discuss or seek help for their mental health problems. We know that gender stereotypes about women – the idea they should behave or look a certain way, for example – can be damaging to them.

But it’s important to understand that men can be damaged by stereotypes and expectations too.

Men are often expected to be the breadwinners and to be strong, dominant and in control. While these aren’t inherently bad things, they can make it harder for men to reach out for help and open up.

Some research also suggests that men who can’t speak openly about their emotions may be less able to recognise symptoms of mental health problems in themselves, and less likely to reach out for support.

Men may also be more likely to use potentially harmful coping methods such as drugs or alcohol and less likely to talk to family or friends about their mental health. However, there is research to suggest that men will access help when they feel it meets their preferences and is easily accessed, meaningful, and engaging.

How can they be helped?

If you’re concerned about a friend, you can help them by-

• Letting them know you’re there to listen to them without judgement.

• try to keep in touch because someone who is experiencing mental health problems may find it hard to reach out.

• If you think they need support, Psyche Vitality has experts who can help them.

• Help them to get help. Reassure them it’s okay to ask for help, and that support is out there.