Why Men’s Mental Health Matters: James Yoon, MSW, LSW

“Man up”. “Just get over it”.

If you’ve heard responses like these to challenges that men face, you’re not alone. Although more and more individuals become aware of and seek help for mental illness year by year, the prevailing idea of “just manning up” still exists when it comes to men’s mental health.

Why does it matter?

Men are less likely to seek help for their mental health than women. Without seeking help, men may turn to self-medicating through drugs or alcohol and many will ultimately take their own lives. Suicide remains a leading cause of death in the U.S. and the rate among men is nearly 4 times higher than women.

Without healthy outlets and coping skills for mental health challenges, both men and women may experience a higher risk of physical health conditions, difficulty with relationships, and problems at work or school.

Stigma and Toxic Masculinity

Men’s mental health stigma is complex and widespread. It is perpetuated by societal norms, cultural beliefs, and in turn, men’s own concept of themselves. Society tends to look unfavorably on men experiencing mental health challenges due to the idea of appearing weak. Many cultures have traditionally looked down upon the idea of men seeking help for mental health, reinforcing embarrassment or shame among those who do. Certain cultural beliefs have also led to distrust and lack of information about the healthcare system. These social/cultural factors then play into men’s individual ideas and standards of themselves.

Generations of past standards, expectations, and ideas of men have led to a culture of toxic masculinity. Starting from a young age, men are encouraged to display dominance and power over both women and other men. Crying, showing fear or anxiety, and being vulnerable with others are seen as signs of weakness. These masculinity norms have played a major part in the worsening of anxiety, depression, violence, substance use, and overall mental health among men.

Common Challenges

According to a 2021 study by the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately one in five adults in the U.S. live with a mental illness. Among men, some of the most common mental health disorders are depression, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, and substance use disorders.

Some of the most common symptoms of mental illness in men include:

• Anger, irritability, or aggressiveness
• Changes in mood, energy, or appetite
• Sleep issues
• Feeling hopeless or persistent sadness
• Thoughts of death, self-harm, or suicidal ideation
• Abuse of alcohol or drugs

How do we change?

No matter what culture, gender, race, or ethnicity we come from, we can all play a part in improving the stigma of men’s mental health and break down the culture of toxic masculinity. We can make it normal to ask men about their mental health and how they are doing. Rather than condemning, judging, or criticizing men for experiencing their emotions, we can normalize men seeking help for challenges that they face.

Mental health resources have become more readily available over the years. Whether virtual or in-person, men can speak with a therapist, reach out to their PCP, psychiatrist, or psychologist, and attend peer or community support groups. Some of these medical health professionals can provide medication for certain conditions. Mental health apps are also available to help with journaling, reflection, and using coping skills.

Being part of a culture that opens the floor for men to speak about their mental health challenges will encourage more men to seek out and accept the help that is desperately needed.

References:

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db464.htm

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness