June is Men’s Health Month, and it’s also an important time to talk about mental health and well-being for men. We often view mental health as a women’s issue, but men suffer from mental health problems just as often as women. Yet, too often, men don’t feel comfortable talking about their feelings or seeking help when they need it. This can lead to severe mental health issues that go untreated.
Common mental health issues in men
Mental health issues in men are more common than you may think. Suicides among men have been increasing since 2000, and it has consistently remained one of the leading 10 causes of death in males. That’s why it’s so important to talk about these issues and seek help if you’re struggling.
Depression is one of the most common mental health issues in men, and it often goes undiagnosed. It can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, and thoughts of suicide.
Anxiety disorders are also common in men. Symptoms can include feeling restless or on edge, sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness. Men with anxiety disorders may also have difficulty sleeping and may avoid situations that make them feel anxious.
Substance abuse is another common mental health issue in men. Men are more likely than women to abuse alcohol or drugs, leading to addiction and a host of other problems. Substance abuse can cause financial difficulties, legal issues, relationship problems, and health problems.
A survey on drug use and health in 2016 showed that the number of men who died from alcohol-related causes was significantly higher than the number of women.
Many men also live with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The natural responses the mind and body have in times of peril can linger afterward, causing men to be anxious and freaked out for no apparent cause. Men are also four times more likely to be diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) than women.
The effects of stigma on men’s mental health
The stigma around men’s mental health can lead to men feeling alone, like they have to hide their mental health issues, making them feel isolated and alone. This isolation can make it harder for men to seek help for their mental health problems and ultimately worsen the issues. According to statistics, men are more likely to engage in potentially harmful and self-destructive behaviors than seek professional help for their mental health.
Several things can contribute to the stigma against men with mental health issues. One is the stereotype that men should be strong and emotionless. This can make it difficult for men to open up about their feelings and can make them feel like they need to bottle everything up. Another contributing factor is the idea that seeking help for mental health problems is a sign of weakness. This can make men feel like they need to tough it out on their own, even if they’re struggling.
According to Mental Health America, there may be less obvious reasons why men are hesitant to seek treatment.
The methods for educating men about mental health are typically the same as those used for women, which may not be what men need. In addition, men and women may also experience mental health symptoms differently.
Instead of the sadness that is commonly associated with depression, men may become irritated or angry when they feel down. Because they don’t consider anger to be a symptom of depression, they don’t seek assistance for it. It can be challenging to identify what’s wrong with them if they’re not showing “typical” symptoms, and it’s also harder for others to detect it.
Often, when men go to get medical help for depression, it is usually because of the physical symptoms it causes (such as racing heart and headaches) rather than the emotional ones.
Reducing the stigma of mental illness in men
We can reduce the stigma around mental illness in men by talking about it more openly. When we talk about mental health issues, we should include men in the conversation. Too often, mental health is seen as a women’s issue, but it affects men just as much. By including men in the conversation, we can help break down the barriers that keep them from seeking help.
Another way to reduce the stigma around mental illness in men is by educating ourselves and others about the signs and symptoms of mental illness. Too often, mental health issues are seen as weakness or a sign of personal failure. But Mental illness is a real medical condition that can be treated. By educating ourselves and others about mental illness, we can help remove the stigma surrounding it.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, don’t be afraid to seek help from a therapist. Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of.
Mental health screenings
Mental health screenings are important for men because they can help identify potential mental health issues early on. By doing so, men can get the treatment they need before their condition worsens. Left untreated, mental health conditions can seriously impact every aspect of a man’s life, including his relationships, work performance, and physical health. If you’re a man experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
If you’re not sure whether or not you should get a mental health screening, talk to your doctor. They can help you assess your risk factors and decide if a screening is right for you. Remember, mental health screenings are important for men of all ages. It’s never too early or too late to get help.
Mental health screenings are typically quick and easy, and a doctor, nurse, or another mental health professional can do them.
They usually involve a series of questions about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The goal is to identify any potential mental health issues so that they can be treated early on.
Mental health screenings are important for men because they can help identify potential mental health issues early on. By doing so, men can get the treatment they need before their condition worsens. Left untreated, mental health conditions can seriously impact every aspect of life.
If you’re experiencing severe mental health symptoms of depression, anxiety, or PTSD, call Serene Health. We offer a range of behavioral health and mental health services,including individual and family therapy. We also have flexible appointments available through our telehealth platform, which allows you to receive services 7 days a week and talk to a therapist online from any place you choose. Call us at 844-737-3638 or visit us at www.serenehealth.com to book an appointment.