MENtal health awareness: How Emotional Distress Can Have Negative Impacts on Male Behavior
While it is important to understand the effects of mental health on people, very rarely do we address the mental health toll on men. In fact, the topic is considered taboo among males compared to females, who are more open to discussing their mental health and are more likely to have access to resources that support those with mental health problems. The world is rapidly progressing, but we as a society still remain unchanged in our attitude towards men’s mental health. However, by recognizing how and why male mental health awareness is vital, we can develop more effective strategies to support their mental health and promote their overall well-being.
The Stigma Behind Men’s Mental Health
Due to the societal pressures placed on men, the topic of men’s mental health is often either ignored or not taken seriously. Men are frequently told to “man up” or to “take things like a man.” In society, showing emotions is seen as a sign of vulnerability. Men are often expected to exhibit traits such as strength, courage, independence, leadership, and assertiveness. Although these traits are commonly associated with men in the West, their influence has spread to the East, where Eastern men are often portrayed as less masculine than their Western counterparts. While awareness of men’s mental health issues has slowly become more normalized, there is still a long way to go in terms of fully integrating mental health into everyday conversations.
But why is it considered taboo in the first place? Unfortunately, even today, society places men in roles of dominance and power. As the “assertive” gender, many men are conditioned to avoid showing emotion, as it is seen as a feminine trait. Consequently, men are expected to be tough and stoic.
Lack of Accessibility of Mental Health Resources for Men
Men are less likely to share their struggles or visit a therapist compared to women, as evidence shows that fewer men seek assistance for mental health challenges. Many are reluctant to visit mental health counselors due to various reasons, including:
- Pressure around societal norms
- Reluctance to talk about their problems
- Embarrassment
- Shame
In many cultures around the world, men are expected to conform to traditional male roles, which often prevents them from showing any signs of weakness or vulnerability, including speaking out about mental health. Additionally, men often neglect their physical wellness. A survey conducted by the Cleveland Clinic found that 72% of men would rather do household chores than go to the doctor, which further affects their health. Even when they do visit a doctor, they often refrain from providing details about their illness.
A major mental health issue affecting men around the world is depression. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 6 million men are affected by depression in the US annually. Similarly, statistics indicate that 6 million men in the Philippines also suffer from depression or anxiety. Depression is more than just feeling sad; it encompasses feelings of hopelessness and affects the way men think, feel, and function in every aspect of life. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, there are effective strategies to manage male depression successfully and prevent its recurrence.
Conclusion
Showing signs of mental health struggles is not a sign of weakness; in fact, recognizing and acknowledging your own emotions can make you stronger. Men, like everyone else, are human beings with their own feelings, and breaking barriers and overcoming social influences allows us as a society to progress. Resources for mental health issues are accessible to both men and women, so it’s important not to think of them as limited by gender.
One way to alleviate mental stress is through lifestyle changes, such as improving your diet, exercising regularly, and ensuring adequate sleep. Mental health professionals may recommend various lifestyle and self-help approaches, including:
- Practicing breathing exercises
- Engaging in meditation
- Regular physical exercise
- Eating a nutritious diet
- Getting sufficient quality sleep
- Spending time with family and friends
Surrounding yourself with positivity can stimulate the brain to produce feel-good hormones, which is essential for everyone, regardless of gender.
References:
Robinson, L. (2024, March 12). Depression in men. HelpGuide.org. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/depression-in-men.htm
Field, B. (2023, June 14). Why Men Don’t Get Mental Health Help When They Need It. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/exploring-the-stigma-of-men-and-mental-health-5510053
Martinez, A. B., Co, M., Lau, J., & Brown, J. S. L. (2020). Filipino help-seeking for mental health problems and associated barriers and facilitators: a systematic review. Social psychiatry and psychiatric epidemiology, 55(11), 1397–1413. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-020-01937-2
Cleveland Clinic. (2019, September 4). Men will do Almost Anything to Avoid Going to the Doctor. Cleveland Clinic. https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2019/09/04/cleveland-clinic-survey-men-will-do-almost-anything-to-avoid-going-to-the-doctor
Griffith, D. (2024, April 2). Men and mental health: What are we missing? AAMC. https://www.aamc.org/news/men-and-mental-health-what-are-we-missing
Published on July 15, 2024.
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