It’s no longer a secret that men all over the world find it particularly difficult to talk and open up about mental health.
This poses a significant risk of suicide, with men being at a much greater risk than women.
So great is this risk that studies by the World Health Organisation (WHO) have shown that men in high-income countries are three times more likely than women to die by suicide.
There are definite and effective ways to address the many issues faced by men when it comes to mental health, and it all starts with improving education.
Knowing The “Why”
Mental health is important as it forms a vital part of our overall sense of health and well-being. In order to get through life’s curve balls and challenges, it is important to take care of our mental health.
It is also important to realise and understand that mental health issues are common. They are by no means a sense of weakness. Instead, it can take enormous courage and inner strength to admit that there’s a problem – and even more so to seek out professional help.
Challenging Stigma
Improving education about mental health in men is a significant step in addressing the problem.
Researchers are continually emphasising the importance of changing the way men have been taught to think about issues like depression and anxiety. In order to achieve this, the stigma that has traditionally surrounded male mental health issues must be challenged in the strongest sense of the word.
They also place enormous emphasis on helping men to challenge the idea of receiving mental health support being equal to a sign of weakness.
Improved Support
Research furthermore agrees that there exists a definite societal lack of support regarding male mental health.
This support landscape bust be changed by offering community-based programs that will help combat the essential risk factors associated with mental health problems.
This support landscape must also change in order to support a group of men that faces marginalization, such of men of colour and men with different sexual orientations.
Practical Improvements
Many things can affect mental health in men, including financial stress, issues with unemployment, social isolation, and drug and alcohol abuse.
There are many practical ways to improve men’s mental health:
- Learning to talk about feelings with trusted persons
- Following a healthy diet, and getting regular sleep and exercise
- Doing enjoyable activities like winning mega casino bonuses
- Setting clear and realistic goals
- Setting aside sufficient time for relaxation (on purpose)
- Talking to a medical professional
- Spending enough time with friends and family
Tips For Getting Well
- Know that it’s perfectly OK to seek help. Research has shown that up to 70% of men avoid seeking help when it is needed. Instead of suffering in silence, and ultimately suffering the consequences of wanting to “go it alone”, talk to your GP, your partner, or a trusted friend. Talking is often the first step towards getting well.
- Keep your mates close. Mental health issues, especially in men, can lead to extreme social isolation. But studies have shown over and over again how good quality social connections can help combat mental health problems. Keeping your mates close and spending quality time with friends is a great way to avoid becoming isolated and even more unhappy.
- Get out and become active. Exercise is a great way to combat depression, stress, and anxiety. Even as little as a 20-minute daily walk can bring about an enormous improvement to your mental health.