No matter your gender, mental health problems can affect
anyone. However men's Mental Health Month, it is an unfortunate reality
that men experience greater stigma when it comes to discussing their mental health
struggles. This is why June has been designated as Men's Mental Health Month -
to help raise awareness and encourage more open conversations.
History and Purpose
of Men's Mental Health Month
Men's Mental Health Month originated in the United States in the
early 2000s. Canada and the United Kingdom soon followed, designating June as a
time to recognize the unique mental health challenges that men face. The
primary goals of the awareness movement are:
- Reduce the
stigma around mental illness for men by bringing more attention to the
issue.
- Educate the
public about common mental health problems like depression, anxiety,
addiction, PTSD, etc., and encourage men to seek help.
- Promote
prevention through healthy strategies for managing stress and improving
emotional well-being.
- Advocate for
sufficient funding and resources to support men's mental health programs
and services.
Studies have shown that men are less likely than women to seek
counseling or therapy even when experiencing symptoms of illness. Social pressures
tell men to be strong and cope alone. Men's Mental Health Month aims to change
those attitudes and empower men to prioritize their mental well-being without
shame.
Common Symptoms of
Mental Health Issues in Men
Knowing the warning signs is an important part of raising
awareness. Here are some of the most prevalent mental health issues that
disproportionately affect men:
- Depression: Symptoms
include feelings of worthlessness, sadness, hopelessness, changes in
appetite/sleep, and loss of interest in activities. Men may express
depression through increased anger, irritability, or substance abuse
rather than sadness.
- Anxiety: Excessive
worrying, nervousness, panic attacks, trouble concentrating, restlessness,
muscle tension etc. Social anxiety is especially common in men.
- PTSD: Developing
after a traumatic event, PTSD symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares,
avoidance of reminders, emotional numbness, and hypervigilance. Common
causes for men include military combat, accidents, violence, or natural
disasters.
- Bipolar
Disorder: Extreme
mood swings between mania/hypomania and depression. During manic episodes,
there may be rapid speech, risky behavior, aggression, and decreased need
for sleep. Substance abuse is frequent with bipolar disorder in men.
- Schizophrenia: Characterized
by psychosis including hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking,
and speech. Schizophrenia most often develops in early adulthood for men.
Breaking Down the
Stigma Surrounding Men's Mental Health
Traditional notions of masculinity have contributed to many men
viewing mental illness and therapy negatively, as signs of personal weakness.
Some common stigmas include:
- Thinking they
should be able to "tough it out" and handle struggles on their
own.
- Fear that
opening up emotionally may undermine their masculinity or authority at
work/home.
- Associating
counseling with character flaws rather than treatable medical conditions.
- Worry that
others may think less of them or see them as unreliable if their mental
health issues are revealed.
- Believing they
don't deserve help or that their problems aren't "serious
enough" for professional care.
Part of raising awareness is reassuring men that help-seeking is a
sign of self-awareness and strength, not weakness. Everyone deserves to feel
emotionally supported. Mental health challenges are illnesses, not moral flaws
or character defects. With treatment comes greater life satisfaction and
improved relationships. Men's health advocates work to spread these messages
and create a culture where men feel comfortable prioritizing their mental well-being.
What Can Be Done
During Men's Mental Health Month?
To maximize the impact of the awareness period, here are some
suggested actions individuals and organizations can take:
- Educate Yourself - Learn
more about common conditions, access available resources, and identify
trustworthy mental health professionals. Knowledge is empowering.
- Check In On
Friends & Family - Have caring conversations, look for possible
signs of distress, and offer support and reassurance that help is
available if wanted.
- Open Up Yourself - Consider
sharing your own experiences to help others feel less alone. Authenticity
reduces stigma.
- Host Community
Events -
Arrange forums, presentations, or activities to discuss mental health
challenges and coping strategies in a supportive environment.
- Promote Help
Services -
Share information about counseling centers, support groups, crisis
hotlines, and online tools through websites and social media.
- Support Advocacy
Efforts -
Raise awareness through education campaigns or donation drives for
programs dedicated to men's mental wellness.
Getting Help if Needed
If you or someone you care for is showing distressing symptoms of
a potential mental illness, the most important thing is to seek help from a
qualified mental health professional. Do not wait until a crisis occurs. Some
options to consider:
If you or someone you care for is showing distressing (Stress and Anxiety) symptoms of
a potential mental illness, the most important thing is to seek help from a
qualified mental health professional. Do not wait until a crisis occurs. Some
options to consider:
- Contact your
primary care doctor for an evaluation and referrals to local therapists
and psychiatrists.
- Call your
insurance provider for listings of in-network mental health specialists.
- Search online
databases of licensed counselors, social workers, and psychologists in
your area.
- Contact a mental
health hotline at any hour like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
for guidance.
- Check if your
employer provides an Employee Assistance Program for counseling support.
- Consider online
therapy through sites that offer affordable virtual sessions.
Remember, you deserve to feel healthy, stable, and empowered to
handle life's challenges. With proper diagnosis and individualized treatment,
even severe mental illnesses are often manageable conditions. Taking that first
step toward help is incredibly brave.
In conclusion, Men's Mental Health Month each June is a chance to
shed light on mental health struggles unique to men while also promoting a global
message of compassion. With open conversations and support, we can work toward
a society with less stigma - where all people feel comfortable prioritizing
their emotional well-being and seeking help without judgment if needed.
