Why the Complexities of Men's Mental Health Challenges Need Recognition and Action

Conversations around anxiety, depression, and stress have become increasingly prevalent, fostering an environment where individuals feel more comfortable discussing their mental well-being. However, there remains an area that is often overlooked in conversations – men’s mental health. Dr Shyam Bhat, Psychiatrist, and Chairperson, LiveLoveLaugh explains why is it important to talk about men’s mental health issues:

High rates of suicide and underdiagnosis

Statistics show that men die by suicide 2.5 times compared to women, according to a 2021 study, as compared to twice as common as women in 2014, which shows that there is an increasing number of male suicides.

While there are more suicide attempts in women, there is less death by suicide. Which points to a couple of things – the suicide method used by men was more extreme and the intent was higher. Also, perhaps it suggests that, in some cases, suicidal behavior also could be a way of reaching out for help, whereas with men what we find is that many times, there are no prior signals that they were depressed.

In fact, studies show that 50% of men who die by suicide, do not have a diagnosable mental illness according to the current DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) criteria, which begs the question, is it an absence of mental illness? or is it the fact that the system fails to capture men’s mental illness?

Biological and societal influences

Extensive research proves that different hormone levels do create alterations in various functions. One obvious effect of testosterone is increased muscle mass and increased aggression. Additionally, there are other changes that contribute to the situation where men process things differently.

Further, in more patriarchal societies, the emphasis has been on the man being a stoic emotionless person who does not display feelings and cannot seek emotional support, which worsens the situation. This is even more true when they are going through difficult times in which case many men tend to isolate themselves or numb themselves.

Hesitation in seeking support

“Due to these reasons, men often cannot connect with their feelings, express them, or seek support. This results in numbness or denial and isolation, which exacerbates the problem, because often what the man does experience, is either a sense of numbness or emptiness, and of course, use substances to mitigate that.

All of this then amplifies the isolation, the anger, etc. Women who are suffering because they were able to cry and show vulnerability actually get support. Contrary to that, many men at the time, who need greater support, find themselves misunderstood and isolated. This then contributes deeply to the risk of suicide.

How to help the situation

Number one, forming, having a good circle of friends and support, outside their primary relationship. Often, men tend to get emotionally dependent on their partners, and in a happy relationship, a mutual interdependence is good.

However, it’s important for men to also have other sources of connection, such as their friends. It’s also good to stay connected with hobbies and interests outside work so that they feel a more holistic sense of themselves.

Men would be helped by getting in touch with their “feminine” side, which means the side of them that is more empathic, softer, able to be vulnerable, accepting that there is this side to them can help ease a lot of anger, despair, and allow people into their lives as well as feel a greater sense of ease with themselves.

Opening up to receiving nurturing, and being nurturing is a virtuous cycle in relationships, which can help them manage their mental health, as with all genders, the basic principles of mental health remain the same, which are regular sleep, adequate exercise, balanced nutrition, good interpersonal relationships and support and a sense of purpose and meaning in life.

Taking proactive steps for mental wellbeing

We live in a culture where people are facing emotional challenges. And, therefore, in that sense, people are more aware that there is nothing wrong with seeking help, and we are seeing changes. This is a positive change in both women and men in recent years, as we continue to build a society where we talk more openly and acknowledge that.

As a man, taking proactive steps towards your mental health is crucial. Here are some ways you can help yourself:

1. Acknowledge Your FeelingsUnderstand that it’s okay to have emotions and that acknowledging them is the first step towards healing. Try journalling as a regular practice to help you connect with yourself.
2. Talk to SomeoneShare your feelings with a trusted friend or family member. Opening up can provide relief and support.
3. Engage in Healthy ActivitiesRegular exercise, mindfulness practices, and hobbies can significantly improve your mental well-being.
4. Educate YourselfLearn about mental health to better understand your own experiences and reduce stigma.
5. Challenge StereotypesReject the notion that seeking help or expressing emotions makes you weak. Embrace vulnerability as a strength.
6. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help when neededReach out to a therapist, counselor, or mental health professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed.”