Why is there such a stigma surrounding mental health issues in men? Many cultural and societal factors contribute to the silence surrounding men’s mental health problems. Take a moment to learn about the importance of having open conversations, reducing stigma and encouraging men of all ages to reach out and seek support for their mental health.
Why Is Men’s Mental Health Met with Stigma?
For the conversation surrounding men’s health, understanding what stigma is can be the starting point for bringing about change. A stigma is an unjustified negative perception, such as the belief that men should always be calm and stoic to be worthy of respect.
Men and women both face cultural and societal factors that influence certain behaviors. However, when it comes to men discussing their mental health challenges, the silence is deafening.
While physical and emotional strength are great qualities to aspire to, no one can be strong in all ways at all times. In some cultures, discussing mental health is taboo for men, as they don’t want to be considered weak.
The Time for Change Is Now
Despite—or perhaps because of—the stereotype of the strong, stoic male, men experience challenges across many areas of mental health. According to Mental Health America, male depression is underdiagnosed, with a known 6 million cases of male depression every year. More than 3 million American men have panic or phobia disorders; men represent roughly 10 percent of eating disorder cases but are far less likely to find help; and over 1 million men have bipolar disorder, with the average onset occurring between ages 16 and 25.
Perhaps most surprisingly, men account for 90 percent of all schizophrenia diagnoses for people under 30 in the United States. About 3.5 million Americans have schizophrenia, one of the leading causes of disability in the country.
Men and women alike experience mental health problems to varying degrees. However, men are less likely to seek help and may experience more severe outcomes. Overall, certain mental health conditions—and their accompanying symptoms—may affect males and females in varying ways. For example, men are more likely to die by suicide.
By recognizing the following signs of men’s mental health challenges, we can help the men in their lives take the first step in the healing process. Signs of a mental health issue include:
- Abusing drugs, alcohol or both
- Aggressiveness, anger or general irritability
- Changes in appetite or energy level
- Compulsive behaviors
- Inability to concentrate or feeling restless
- On-edge feelings
- Partaking in high-risk activities
- Sadness
- Sleeping too much or having trouble falling or staying asleep
- Increased stress and/or increased worrying
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Unexplained headaches, digestive issues or body aches
Initiatives for Men’s Mental Health
Several organizations are dedicated to the men’s mental health cause, striving to break the stigma and promote mental well-being among men. Some popular initiatives include:
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month
In the United States, June is dedicated to raising awareness about men’s mental health issues and starting conversations that lead men to seek professional help.
International Men’s Day
Usually held in November, International Men’s Day recognizes excellent achievements and contributions men have made around the world. The global observance day also raises awareness about men’s health issues, including mental health. The day encourages positive masculinity amongst other social causes, such as gender equality and eradicating homophobia.
Nationwide Crisis Resources
- Crisis Text Line: Text 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor at any time.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 Lifeline Chat and Text connects you with caring crisis counselors for emotional support 24/7/365.
- Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 and press 1 for 24/7 confidential crisis support for Veterans and their loved ones. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect.
More to Read
- How to Address the Mental Health Stigma
- Anxiety Affects Men, Too, But It Doesn’t Always Look the Same
- The Surprising Connection Between Gratitude and Mental Health
- Sports Psychology: Unlocking Mental Resilience for Peak Performance
Medically reviewed by Jennifer Redding, LCSW-C, Executive Director of the Klein Family Center.
