“Mental Health in an unequal World”. Men and Mental Health.

By: Christine L Sutnga

Counselling Psychologist

Millions of people live with mental health issues, ranging from anxiety, depression and other

disorders. There are clearly many conversations and discussions around mental health

concerns but many still don’t have the courage to reach out or seek help, when they need.

Both men and women do have mental health problems, in which it’s a tough battle for them

to go and seek help due to the stigma and the stereotype societies. It may be even a harder

battle for men who are asked to ‘man-up’ every time they show any vulnerability.

Surveys from around the world show that men everywhere find it difficult to open up about

mental health, though they are significantly more at risk of attempting suicide than women.

As with many mental health statistics, it’s hard to know if the figures really represent what is

happening. They can only tell us about mental health problems that have been reported –

many cases may go undiagnosed. This may be especially true when it comes to men’s mental

health. As three times as many men as women die by suicide.

Men are less likely to access psychological therapies than women, men are far more likely

than women to become dependent on alcohol and use drugs frequently. Society's 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
seek help. Men may also be more likely to use alcohol and drugs to cope with their depression

rather than talking about it. They may use escapist behaviour too, such as throwing

themselves into their work. out for support, rather than seeking help.

When family and friends tend to undermine the importance of taking mental health

seriously, people find it tough to have the conversation and silently suffer - leading to

poor habit, aggression and a nagging feeling of sadness etc.

In order make sure no one suffers alone in the dark, be it men or women. We as the responsible

communities and societies, we must end this stigma and stereotypical believes. And instead

to be more responsible in spreading the awareness of how a good mental health is as

important as oxygen and we need it to survive. We need to talk openly about mental health.

Suffering in silence isn’t a safe or healthy option for both men or women. Check in with them.

Ask them how they’re feeling, especially if one of them has experienced a recent event that

could trigger depression or any other. Look for changes in their behaviour. Support and

encourage one another to seek help from a professional. Encouraging and supporting one

precious life can help save many.