Men’s mental health is not taken as seriously as it should be. A number of factors influence how mental health is treated, including the definition of masculinity and perception of weakness. Our cultural norms make it harder for men to seek support for mental health issues. There is an outdated way of thinking that men who admit that they have mental health issues are less likely to be successful. In this article, we shall be discussing why men still struggle with facing mental health issues.
Stigma
One of the unfortunate stigmas surrounding men’s mental health is that they are less valuable if they are suffering from such issues. This belief may stem from a number of close people including family and friends. The embarrassment is a driver in preventing men from seeking help when they need it.
Men might fear that their reputation will suffer if others know that they are going through mental health problems. Men might fear being marginalised, excluded and shamed. Another insecurity is tied to the belief that some may think that by admitting that they need help, they will be prevented from succeeding in life. In view of the fears created by stigma, the easy way out might be to ignore mental health issues, hoping that they go away on their own.
The consequences of ignoring mental health
Those who ignore their mental health needs might find that the situation will deteriorate rapidly. This can impact both their personal and professional lives. With mental health issues allowed to go unchecked, relationships can shatter, self-esteem may evaporate and workplace problems might ensue. All this would potentially make one feel isolated from both family and friends.
The signals
Mental health problems do not affect all males the same way. Some indicators include, fatigue, feelings of guilt and worthlessness, issues with concentration and sleep, amongst others.
When left to fester, mental health problems can trigger sadness and depression, bringing about thoughts, considerations and attempts surrounding suicide. This is definitely not something to underestimate, especially when considering that it is hard to predict or detect these thoughts in others.
Addressing mental health does not reflect weakness
Men might fear that addressing their mental health concerns and asking for help reflect weakness. Rather than weakness, this would be a good problem solving method which could dilute a potentially more serious situation.
If you feel that you are struggling with mental health issues, take this seriously. If you do not, likelihood is that no one else will.
