5 Truths Everyone Needs To Know About Men’s Mental Health

Men Wish Other Men Knew About Mental Health

Did you know over 40% of men do not talk about their mental health issues? In fact, according to men’s mental health statistics, most of them report seeking medical help only when struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Men’s mental health is an increasingly serious issue that we need to talk about openly without any judgment, criticism or shame.

In our complex and flawed society, men still lack a safe space to talk about their emotional and mental issues. No, we don’t talk about men’s mental health. We simply tell them to “man up” because “boys don’t cry”. But it’s time to change that as telling someone struggling with psychological struggles to man-up is not the answer.

Related reading: 10 Rules For Modern Masculinity

Men’s mental health awareness vs social stigma

Men's Mental Health
Men’s Mental Health

Mental health is a topic we need to take seriously regardless of someone’s gender. Yet, men are judged more than women when they struggle with devastating mental illnesses like anxiety, depression, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Why? Simply because men are supposed to be strong.

They are not supposed to show signs of weakness. And this makes it increasingly difficult for most men to admit that they are struggling, let alone ask for help.

This stands true even when studies have found that men are more vulnerable to commit suicide than women. “Suicide appears to be a male phenomenon, as death rates from suicide are four-to-five times higher for men than for women,” explain researchers

Then how do we spread awareness about men’s mental health on this men’s mental health month, when we are stifled by stigma and suffocated by a highly distorted society?

By openly talking about it. By encouraging those who have found the courage to seek help and recover from their inner struggles. To share their stories. To encourage those men who are still hiding in the shadows desperately trying not to let anyone know about their mental issues. 

We need such bold and brave men to lead our society into an era where seeking help is encouraged and applauded, not criticized and judged.

Related reading: What is Good Mental Health?

What men wish other men knew about mental health

Not everyone hides their pain. Some fight and inspire others to fight their inner demons and find the light which can brighten their life once again. Here are the things to know about men’s mental health from men dealing with mental illness the right way

1. Dean, 33: It’s okay to be emotional and express your feelings

Having emotions and sharing them is healthy and natural, believes Dean who has been coping with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), which causes constant feelings of fear, anxiety, self-doubt and insecurities.

He says his condition makes it difficult for him to communicate his feelings as he is riddled with self-doubt and social anxiety. He also experiences persistent panic attacks and has difficulty in relationships.

But it’s okay to be emotional and express your feelings. Despite how my anxiety makes me feel, I take deliberate effort to connect with others and talk about my feelings with my loved ones,” says Dean.

A recent 2021 study has found that men tend to be as emotional as women. However, due to social programming and dysfunctional stereotypes, men refrain from sharing those emotions and grow up suppressing their feelings, which can lead to several mental and emotional health issues.

In fact, recent research has observed that “Some men maintained a desire to be independent, rejecting the need for social support,” while “others experienced difficulties in mobilizing support from existing connections.”

Related reading: 10 Ways Men Can Crack the Code of Their Feelings

If someone considers you weak for having feelings or struggling with men’s mental health problems, then you don’t need such toxic people in your life.

Regardless of what society might tell you about the unacceptability of men’s emotions, you don’t need to fall victim to cultural norms, says Dean.

Don’t fall for such toxic gender stereotypes against men. Expressing your emotions is not a sign of weakness, rather it is a sign of strength as it takes courage to be vulnerable before someone else. Don’t let your fear of repercussions and anxiety dictate your life,” suggest Dean.

2. Nathan, 26: Never shy away from seeking help

Truths about men's mental Health

Although being depressed may seem cool to many people, struggling with major depression can destroy your life. It can ruin your career, your relationships and make you falsely believe that suicide is the only escape you have. This is why it is very, very important that you always talk to a doctor and seek medical help,” says Nathan, who has been diagnosed with clinical depression. 

According to one 2011 study, depression is typically considered “a woman’s disease,” but the lower incidence of depression among men is mainly a result of “men’s tendencies to deny illness, self-monitor and self-treat symptoms, and avoid professional health care providers and services as a means to enact and preserve their masculinity.

Researchers from a 2018 study, have also found that “Men seek mental health treatment less often than women.” Mental health help-seeking in men is far less than in women which can strongly affect their personal life, relationships, physical & mental health, and financial state.

“Men are more likely than women to terminate therapy early and generally have negative attitudes toward help-seeking,” adds the study.

Related reading: Why We Need To Stop Romanticising Mental Health Problems

When you are a man, it is difficult to admit that you are facing men’s mental health issues and seek help. We are programmed from our childhood to believe that we should be strong and deal with all problems to earn the right to be called “a man”.

So when we feel down, chaotic, and unable to deal with inner issues, our first instinct is to hide it. Instead of addressing our mental health issues, we put excessive pressure on ourselves to be strong and to ‘man up’. So it makes sense that we are afraid of seeking help believing that society will see us as weak. 

But we need to actively change that,” says Nathan. He adds “You don’t need to be afraid to seek professional help despite how scary it may seem. No one will judge you. It will not make you any less of a man. In fact, you will inspire others to get the help they need. Only a real man knows how to ask for help.

3. Tyrone, 45: You are not alone

Feeling isolated and lonely is one of the most common symptoms of mental illness. Being burdened by mental health issues like stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, or depression, can make you feel that you are all alone which can drastically affect the way you interact with yourself and others.

But do not believe for one second that you are actually alone. It is a false narrative that your mind feeds you. Influenced by your distorted thoughts, you start believing that nobody cares about you and you increasingly withdraw yourself from social relationships,” says Tyrone, who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

If you feel alone and down, that’s okay. But make some effort to reach out to people you love and trust. Studies have found that “having a higher frequency of contact with family, friends, and social online networks contributes to reducing loneliness for all individuals.

In fact, one 2019 study has found that fulfilling and meaningful relationships can significantly help to improve men’s mental health and well-being.

Globally, numerous men suffer from a range of mental illnesses, but as men are conditioned not to talk about their mental health problems, it usually goes unreported or undiagnosed. According to men’s mental health statistics, around 18% of men worldwide suffer from some form of psychiatric or substance use disorders.

About one billion people around the world experienced some form of mental illness in 2017. So if you believe that you are the only one struggling with such issues, then you are definitely not the only one. “And this is why we need to come forward and talk about men’s mental health openly and honestly,” suggests Tyrone.

Related reading: Why Men Who Cry Are Not Weak, They Are Stronger Than The Rest

4. Armando, 29: Mental health is different for everyone

My definition of good mental health does not necessarily have to match your definition of the same. Each one of us have different life experiences and perspectives. We have different personalities and sensitivities. What makes me feel anxious might not even matter to you. So never judge yourself or your health according to how others define it. Your health depends on how you feel. The focus here is on you,” explains Armando, who is currently under treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Mental illness lies on a spectrum, from absent to present. Well-being also lies on a spectrum, from low to high,” states a 2010 study. Depression can lead to suicidal behaviors in some people, but simply because you don’t feel suicidal, it doesn’t mean you are not depressed or that you don’t require medical attention.

Men’s mental health problems can affect each one of us differently. While some may still be functional in their daily life, others may experience serious difficulty in their day-to-day living.

“I would suggest everyone struggling with mental health problems seek help and undergo medical treatment,” adds Armando.

Related reading: What Many Men Secretly Crave But Have A Hard Time Asking For

5. Darrell, 37: Always focus on yourself first

As men, we barely have any time for self-care. The honest to God truth is men are often alien to the concept of ‘self-love’. Between our careers, paying bills, family responsibilities, and relationships, self-care for men often translates to cracking a cold one with the boys. But we need to focus on improving your mental health first and foremost,” says Darrell, who is coping with dysthymia, a chronic form of depression.

He believes that men are not taught how to care for themselves. They are not taught how to practice self-love, self-care, and self-compassion. As a result, men often indulge in substance and alcohol abuse as a means to deal with men’s mental health issues. But that needs to change now.

We need to normalize self-care for men. Unless you learn to care for yourself, you will not be able to care for your family. Unless you know how to love yourself, you cannot love your partner and children,” adds Darrell. 

Focusing on your needs, desires, wants and mental illness will make you more aware of your strengths and enable you to work on your weaknesses. It will help you build the life you want for yourself and your family.

Related reading: Alcoholism And Mental Health

Men and mental health

Truths about men's mental Health

Men’s mental health problems are topics we need to talk about more frequently because unless we make seeking help normal for men, we will keep hiding our pain and problems.

We can have as many men’s mental health awareness campaigns as we want, but nothing will change in reality unless we shatter stereotypes and transform how we look at men as a society.

Mental illness is serious for everyone regardless of your gender or sex. So instead of suppressing your feelings and hiding your illness, talk to trusted loved ones and consult mental health professionals. Recovery is possible. All you need to do is take the most difficult step – reach out and ask for help.

A real man always looks after himself.

Related reading: 3 Most Common Mental Health Disorders In Men


Men Wish Other Men Knew About Mental Health pin
Men Wish Other Men Knew Mental Health

— About the Author —

Leave a Reply



Up Next

6 Benefits Of Walking: Why It’s One Of The Best Things You Can Do For Your Mental Health

Brilliant Benefits Of Walking For Your Mental Health

Walking is so underrated when it comes to ensuring mental well-being. There are so many powerful benefits of walking that can do wonders for our mental and emotional health. This article is going to talk about some of the best mental health benefits of walking.

Boost your mood, energy level, confidence, and more simply by getting your steps in.

Taking a brisk walk is a great way to clear your head, calm your mood, and keep you healthy. It may seem simple, but walking can have a powerful effect on your mental health, and the good news is that it’s free.



Up Next

Waking Up Feeling Anxious In The Morning? How To Deal With Morning Anxiety

Morning Anxiety: How To Deal With Anxiety After Waking Up

Do you experience anxiety after waking up in the morning? A terrible anxiety in the morning you just don’t know how to deal with it? Well, you’ve come to the right place. This article is going to talk about morning anxiety and how to deal with morning anxiety, so that your mornings feel more relaxed, calm and peaceful.

If you commonly wake up in the morning filled with anxiety, you are not alone. Many people wake up with fight-or-flight sensations and feel baffled as to how they can already feel anxious when their feet haven’t even touched the floor yet.

A variety of factors can play a part in morning anxiety: excess stress,



Up Next

Plant Parenthood 101: How Caring For Plants Can Nourish Your Mental Health 

Ways Plant Parenthood Can Boost Your Mental Health

Have you ever wondered why so many people are embracing plant parenthood? It seems like everywhere you turn, there’s someone proudly displaying their thriving indoor jungle or posting pictures of their leafy companions on social media. 

But this trend is more than just a passing fad; it’s a movement that promotes not only the well-being of plants but also the mental health of humans. 

Let us explore the concept of plant parenthood, why caring for plants is important for both plants and humans, and learn how do plants help mental health.

What is Plant Parenthood?

Plant parenthood is the act of nurturing and caring for houseplants as if they were our o



Up Next

7 Emotions You May Feel When You Decide To Divorce

When You Decide To Divorce: Unexpected Emotions You Feel

Making the decision to divorce is one of the hardest decisions to make. When you decide to divorce your spouse, you may feel a ton of emotions that you did not expect at all. This article is going to talk about those feelings and emotions so that if ever you make the decision to divorce, you know what to expect.

KEY POINTS

The decision to divorce is a personal and deeply emotional experience.

There is a common misperception that the person who decides to divorce doesn’t suffer from the decision.

The emotional journey is unique to each individual, and there are no right or wrong ways to feel.



Up Next

30+ Truths About Diet Culture, Eating Disorders, And The Process of Healing

Honest Truths About Diet Culture And Eating Disorders

Diet culture impacts so many people all over the world, and unfortunately, much of it’s impact is negative and harmful. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, then you’ve come to the right place. These truths about diet culture will help you understand it’s repercussions, and motivate you to live your life in a much healthier way.

If you are struggling with food or an eating disorder, these helpful points may offer you the nudge you need to change your relationship with food.

Related: Diving into Diet Culture Definition: 5 Startli



Up Next

Binge Eating Or Comfort Eating? 5 Ways For Comfort Eating To Stay Comfortable

Binge Eating Or Comfort Eating? Solutions To Curb Bingeing

Have you ever demolished an entire pint of ice cream after having a horrendously bad day? Was this binge eating or comfort eating? This article is going to discuss about both, talk about the differences between the two, and how you can stop yourself from binge eating often.

I have two distinct memories that involve eating. One horrified me, the other brought a sense of being understood.

Like most others living in a dorm, I had a small fridge in my little room in college. I was beginning to develop anorexia and was eating less and less, while receiving all kinds of accolades for becoming thin – which of course, egged on my disorder.



Up Next

13 Ways To Quiet A Worried Mind

Ways To Quiet A Worried Mind

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy for our minds to be overloaded with worrisome thoughts. So, how to deal with anxious thoughts? Here are 13 effective ways to quiet a worried mind, offering you the serenity and clarity you need to navigate life’s challenges with ease.

Our minds are basically recorders that play (and replay) their soundtracks all day long, sometimes all night long too. Some people have recordings that tend to be more pleasant and present. Some people’s thinking patterns lean towards the optimistic or realistic side.

Others, not so much. Many people are plagued with worrisome thoughts that lead them to feel chronically stressed, anxious, dep