Men can sometimes find it difficult to talk about their mental health. Mental health may be seen as a taboo topic. Unfortunately, this can lead to mental health problems going undiagnosed and untreated. It’s important to break down the barriers that stop men from talking about their mental health and seeking help.
There are many reasons why men might find it difficult to talk about their mental health. For some, it may be seen as a sign of weakness. Others may worry that they will be judged or that people will think they are crazy. This can make it hard for men to reach out for help when they need it.
There are a number of things that can help break down the barriers that stop men from talking about their mental health.
Openness: One way is to create more open and honest conversations about mental health. This can help to normalize the topic and make it less taboo.
Support: It’s also important to provide support and resources for men who are struggling with their mental health. This can include things like counselling, support groups, and helplines.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health:
“Men with mental illnesses are also less likely to have received mental health treatment than women in the past year. However, men are more likely to die by suicide than women…”
Mental health warning signs
The NIMH lists the following signs that you or a loved one may need help with mental health:
- Anger, irritability, or aggressiveness
- Noticeable changes in mood, energy level, or appetite
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless, or on edge
- Increased worry or feeling stressed
- Misuse of alcohol and/or drugs
- Sadness or hopelessness
- Suicidal thoughts
- Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions
- Engaging in high-risk activities
- Aches, headaches, digestive problems without a clear cause
- Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior
- Thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work, family, or social life
- Unusual thinking or behaviors that concern other people
If you are a man struggling with your mental health, it’s important to reach out for help. Make an appointment today with your healthcare provider at Horizon Family Medical Group. We can help with care and can offer support. You don’t have to suffer in silence.
If you or someone you know is in a crisis, get help immediately. You can call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).