Men’s mental health – you don’t have to suffer alone
June is men’s mental health month. Eugene Stover, MS, LMHC-A, intake therapist at Northeastern Center, helps break down why many men tend to delay getting help for mental health issues.
Facing the facts
Data shows up that men are less likely to seek mental health care. In 2021, 51.7% of women received support for a mental health condition, while only 40% of men did. Similarly, one in 10 men will experience depression or anxiety, but less than half will receive treatment.
The consequences are dire. More than four times as many men as women die by suicide every year, and men make up almost 80% of all suicides.
Why men delay getting help
Some of the blame for this delay can be attributed to the culture of masculinity. There is often pressure on men to “man up” or “tough it out,” so men speaking up about their struggles is often seen as a weakness.
This culture can encourage men be too self-reliant and develop trust issues. Rather than seeking help from others, they internalize their struggles and let things continue to build up until they become major issues that can’t be ignored.
Warning signs and symptoms
When it comes to dealing with mental health disorders, men can often experience different symptoms and develop different coping tools. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, symptoms of mental health disorders in men may look like:
- Escapist behavior, spending a lot of time at work or on sports.
- Physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive problems and pain.
- Misuse of alcohol or drugs.
- Controlling, violent or abusive behavior.
- Anger, irritability, or aggressiveness.
- Risky behavior.
- Noticeable changes in mood, energy level or appetite.
- Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless or on edge.
Help end the stigma
In order for men to get the help they need, we need to be ending the stigma around seeking help, rather than being manly or tough. Encourage your loved ones to seek help if you notice signs of mental illness or concerns for their well-being.
If you are struggling, know you are not alone, and it is okay to seek support.
For more information on the mental health treatment options Northeastern Center offers, visit our services page. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call our emergency solutions team at 1-800-790-0118.
