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Every November, many individuals grow mustaches in support of Movember, an annual initiative that raises awareness about men’s health issues, especially concerning mental health and suicide prevention. The Movember Foundation, launched in 2003, merged the words “mustache” and “November” to encourage men to grow mustaches during the month to promote awareness of physical and mental health concerns.
Movember
Men’s mental health
Suicide prevention
Stigma & masculinity
However, growing facial hair is the easy part: initiating genuine discussions about mental health is where many men struggle.
If you’re reading this and contemplating whether you might be dealing with a mental health issue, or you suspect a man in your life is struggling, know that you’re not alone. Figuring out what’s going on and where to seek help can be daunting. This guide aims to help you spot the signs, comprehend the reasons behind these challenging conversations, and take steps toward receiving support.
The Silent Crisis: Understanding Men’s Mental Health Through Statistics
Statistics concerning men’s mental health reveal a significant narrative about their experiences and areas for improvement. More than 6 million men experience depression each year, but many are often not diagnosed. Alarmingly, a man dies by suicide approximately once every minute around the globe.
Suicide is more common than many realize, ranking among the leading causes of death. According to U.S. data from 2022, an estimated 23.1% of adults were reported to have a mental condition. Most concerning for men is the treatment gap: 1 in 10 men will face anxiety or depression, yet less than half will seek treatment.
The divide between experiencing distress and receiving help doesn’t only concern accessibility; it also relates to deep-rooted barriers that hinder men from acknowledging their struggles or seeking assistance. The good news? Movember serves as a wonderful chance to break down these barriers for yourself or someone you care about.
Why Engaging in Conversation Is Challenging: Dismantling the Barriers
If you’ve ever thought, “I should probably reach out for help,” yet found it hard to do so, you’re not alone. Many men face real and complex barriers when it comes to seeking assistance.
The Burden of Traditional Masculinity
Men grow up in a culture where harsh standards of masculinity are detrimental. Many boys learn to hide their feelings early on with messages like “boys don’t cry” or “man up.”
This isn’t a new issue; societal views of masculinity have long been linked to traits such as stoicism, dominance, and self-sufficiency. While these qualities are often celebrated as strengths, they can act as obstacles to emotional health, making it hard for men to show vulnerability, admit their need for help, or seek it out.
Stigma: The Dual Challenge
Intertwined with masculinity is the societal stigma surrounding men’s mental health. This stigma can dissuade them from accessing services that could genuinely help. It operates on multiple fronts, both from societal pressure and internalized judgments.
Social stigma amplifies silence around mental health issues, suggesting that men who seek help are ‘weak’ or ‘less manly.’ The pressure to conform contributes to emotional suppression, entrapping men in a cycle of avoidance. Although negative attitudes towards mental health affect everyone, men face unique challenges in this complex landscape.
Read More: Ready to Tackle Mental Health Stigma? Start Here
Men’s Symptoms Can Be Different
One reason mental health issues in men often go unnoticed is that their symptoms can differ from the “textbook” descriptions that people typically recognize.
While men face many of the same mental health challenges as women, their symptoms can manifest in distinct ways. Instead of openly displaying sadness or fear, men might be more inclined to:
Emotional Withdrawal
This suggests that instead of feeling sadness, men might be depressed but may not recognize it, as they often exhibit irritation and anger—emotions that seem more acceptable for men to show.
Isolation and Its Impact
The rates of completed suicide among men have increased along with feelings of loneliness. Here are some key points regarding isolation and men’s mental well-being:
- Only 27% of men say they have six or more close friends, while 41% of women report the same.
- Social isolation can be both a sign and a factor contributing to mental health issues.
If you’re finding yourself more alone, frequently declining invitations, or feeling disconnected from people you once valued, this could be an indication you shouldn’t ignore.
Initiating Discussions on Men’s Mental Health
One of the most significant contributions from Movember is the ALEC model: a straightforward framework designed to guide discussions about mental health. Whether you’re looking for help or checking in on someone, having a guide can make these conversations easier.
A
Ask
Begin by asking how someone is doing. Mention any changes you’ve noticed. For yourself, this might mean reaching out to a friend or family member and saying, “I’d like to talk about something that’s been on my mind.”
L
Listen
Allow the person the freedom to speak without judgment. If you’re the one sharing, choose someone who has shown understanding before.
E
Encourage Action
Gently suggest seeking professional help. This isn’t about forcing; it’s about providing options and resources.
C
Check In
Follow up. Mental health issues can’t be resolved in just one conversation. Frequent check-ins demonstrate ongoing support and care.
Advice for Men Seeking Support
If you find it hard to express your feelings, consider engaging in an activity with someone you trust while talking. You might do this while:
- walking
- playing or watching sports
- working on a car
- shooting pool
Talking alongside someone can feel less daunting than a direct face-to-face conversation. You could approach a friend or family member, sharing your thoughts. You don’t need to have everything figured out or know precisely what’s wrong. Starting with “I haven’t been myself recently” or “I’m going through some things I can’t shake off” is a good way to initiate the conversation.
Self-Evaluation: The First Step Towards Understanding
For many men facing mental health struggles, a significant challenge is often not knowing exactly what they are experiencing. You may feel “off” without being able to identify the reason. This uncertainty can hinder seeking help. After all, how can you ask for assistance when you’re unsure of the issue?
If this resonates with you, know that self-assessment tools can be incredibly helpful. Online screenings offer a fast and simple way to identify any mental health symptoms you may be facing. They are confidential, brief, and based on scientific research.
Exploring Your Support Options: Treatment Choices
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After realizing something is off and deciding to seek help, the next step is often: Where should I begin? There are several routes to support, and you can select the one that feels right for you.
Therapy: More Than Just Talk
Many men tend to hesitate when it comes to conventional therapy, but the field has changed a lot over time. Treatments based on evidence, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and solution-focused methods, resonate well with how a lot of men like to tackle their issues: they are action-oriented, practical, and centered on building specific skills and strategies.
Therapy helps you better understand your situation, identify your triggers, and learn coping strategies to manage your symptoms. For a lot of men, it offers a secure environment to express their challenges and start the healing process.
However, beginning therapy is just one part of the journey: finding the right therapist is crucial too. At GoodTherapy, our extensive search tools let you find professionals based on specific concerns, treatment styles, and other practical matters such as insurance, location, and availability. You can look for therapists who focus on men’s issues, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more.
Read More: Ready to Find Your Therapist? Take Our Quiz
Sometimes, medications can help with mental health problems. This can include antidepressants, anxiety medications, or mood stabilizers. While medication can assist with symptom management and enhance overall mental health, it should always be prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals.
Support groups offer a secure environment for men to share their stories, connect with individuals facing similar difficulties, and receive emotional backing. Many men discover that connecting with others who understand their situation helps lessen feelings of isolation.
Lifestyle choices can also have unexpected effects on mental health. It’s important not to underestimate the benefits of maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and using stress-reduction techniques, as these can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, enhance mood, and contribute to overall well-being.
The most effective approach to mental health treatment often combines different methods. For instance, you might see a therapist while also taking medication, attending a support group, and making health-related changes. There isn’t a single “correct” way to approach mental health care: the best method is the one that suits you.
Beyond November: Prioritizing Mental Health Year-Round
Movember highlights men’s mental health for a month each year, but mental health concerns span beyond just a month. The discussions, awareness, and actions that Movember initiates need to carry on throughout the entire year.
If you are having thoughts of self-harm or are in a crisis, remember that help is available at any time, day or night.
Immediate Crisis Support
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for confidential support anytime, for free
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If you believe you or someone else is in imminent danger, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
When it comes to men’s mental health, you don’t have to go through it alone. Reaching out during tough times is not a sign of weakness; it’s one of the strongest choices you can make.
Resources:
The article above was authored by the individual listed. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of GoodTherapy.org. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this article, please direct them to the author or leave a comment below.
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