Breaking the Silence: Men's Mental Health Matters

International Men's Day (19th November) is an opportunity to raise awareness about men's mental health and encourage men to seek the help they need. It's a day to celebrate the positive contributions men make to society whilst also acknowledging the unique challenges they face. Together, we can start to dismantle the stigma and promote a more supportive environment for men to discuss their mental health.

Whilst mental health is an issue relevant to everyone, for many men it still feels like a taboo to admit help is needed. I wanted to put a spotlight on men's mental health and consider the barriers that can prevent men from seeking support.

Understanding our Differences

Mental health is something we all have, and mental health conditions certainly do not discriminate. However, the way men and women experience and express these challenges can differ significantly. Biological, societal, and cultural factors all play a role in shaping these differences. For instance, men might be less likely to recognise or acknowledge their emotional struggles due to traditional gender roles that still emphasise strength, resilience, and self-reliance.

1. Cultural expectations: Some cultures emphasise traditional masculine traits like toughness and emotional restraint, making it difficult for men to express their feelings.

2. Fear of judgment: Men might fear being judged or ridiculed for showing vulnerability, leading them to hide their struggles.

3. Lack of awareness: Some men might not recognise the symptoms of mental health issues or may attribute them to physical ailments instead.

All of these factors continue to reinforce one of the most significant barriers to men seeking help; that is the stigma surrounding mental health. Many men have grown up with the belief that expressing emotional vulnerability or asking for help can be seen as a sign of weakness. This societal pressure can lead to men suppressing their emotions and suffering in silence. This predominantly hinges around society's definition of masculinity and the (socially) inferred characteristics and standards that men are expected to live up to. For example, the phrase "man up" encapsulates this harmful mentality, discouraging men from speaking out or seeking support. We can all play our part in challenging harmful stereotypes and advocating for mental health resources and support systems that are accessible and effective for everyone.

Here are just a handful of statistics relating to men’s mental health.

• Men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women.

• Men are less likely to seek mental health support compared to women, often waiting until their symptoms are considered severe before reaching out.

• Around 82% of individuals experiencing homelessness are male, and 96% of the total prison population is male. These conditions significantly impact mental health, increasing the need for comprehensive support.

Let's debunk some common myths about men’s mental health:

Myth: Men who talk about their feelings are weak.

Fact: Talking about feelings takes courage and is a sign of strength. It shows a willingness to address and manage your mental health.

Myth: Mental health issues only affect a small number of men.

Fact: According to the World Health Organization, around 1 in 8 men have experienced a mental health disorder.

Myth: Seeking help won’t make a difference.

Fact: Therapy, medication, and support groups have been proven to help individuals manage and overcome mental health challenges.

How can we all help each other?

Encourage open conversations: Normalise talking about mental health and emotions. Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to discuss their feelings.

Seek professional help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you’re struggling. Therapy is a valuable tool for managing mental health.

Educate yourself and others: Learn about the signs and symptoms of mental health issues and share this knowledge to help break down misconceptions.

Build a support network: Surround yourself with people who understand and support you. A strong support system can make a significant difference.

Be an ally: Support those around you. Listen, offer help, and encourage others to seek professional support when needed.

Allyship is about standing together and supporting one another, recognising that mental health is a shared concern. It's crucial that we all become allies in the fight against mental health stigma. Being an ally means listening without judgment, offering support, and encouraging open conversations about mental health for all. By fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, we can create a safer space for men to express their vulnerabilities and seek help.

By addressing the unique challenges men face, promoting open conversations, and being ally’s we can help break the stigma and encourage more men to seek the support they need.