Males with mental diseases are less likely to receive treatment or a diagnosis, despite the fact that they are more common in women than in males.
One of the numerous causes of this is the pressure placed on men to “man up” or “tough it out.” Men are stigmatized for speaking up since it is assumed that they are weak or not “manly.”
It is normal and not shameful for males to experience depression, anxiety, or any other mental disorder. The culture, fatherhood, race, and financial level of a guy are other factors that may have an impact on his mental health journey.
Since nearly one in ten men experience depression or anxiety, less than half will obtain treatment, and more than four times as many men as women commit suicide each year, these stigmas are real and have a significant impact on males.
Men and women experience mental illness in different ways. The first step to receiving the proper support and treatment is realizing that you or someone you love may have a mental disease.
Treatment can be more effective the earlier it is started for a patient.
Related: Mental Health Pandemic The Aftermath of COVID-19
Men are less likely to seek help and speak up for numerous mental health conditions. Additionally, they are less likely to receive a diagnosis as a result.
Knowing the numbers can assist increase awareness of men’s mental health, motivate men to seek treatment, and validate the emotions that men who are suffering from mental health illnesses may be feeling.
Findings
- 77% of the men surveyed reported experiencing symptoms of despair, stress, or anxiety.
40% of males have never discussed their mental health with anyone. - 20% claim there is a “negative stigma” around the subject, while 29% of those who haven’t say they are “too embarrassed” to talk about it.
- Work (32%), finances (31%), and health (23% of men’s problems with mental health) are the main contributors.
- 40% of the men surveyed claimed that considering suicide or self-harm would be necessary for them to seek out professional assistance.
- Although men make up around 10% of bulimia or anorexia patients, they are less likely to seek professional assistance.
- Every year, more than 6 million men experience depression, although this condition is frequently underdiagnosed.
- In the US, more than 3 million males suffer from a phobia or panic disorder, including agoraphobia.
- Bipolar disease affects 2.3 million people in the United States, with men and women experiencing the illness at equal rates. For men, the onset age ranges from 16 to 25 years old.
- Schizophrenia is one of the main contributors to disability in the United States. In the United States, 3.5 million people have received a diagnosis, and 90% of men are diagnosed by the time they are 30 years old.
Warning Symptoms and Signs
The majority of mental diseases and conditions can affect both sexes, however they may present with different symptoms and require different coping mechanisms.
When depression strikes men, it may go unnoticed because of maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Men may exhibit the following symptoms of mental health disorders
- escapist actions, such putting in a lot of time at work or playing sports
- physical signs, such as pain, discomfort, and headaches
- alcohol and/or drug abuse
- abusive, violent, or controlling conduct
- anger (inappropriate anger), irritation, or aggression
- risky conduct, such as driving carelessly
- changes in mood, energy level, or hunger that are discernible
Men are more likely to receive a diagnosis of the condition by the age of 30 than women.
These signs and symptoms can affect both men and women
- feel depressed, hopeless, or void
- feel incredibly exhausted,
- have trouble sleeping, or sleep excessively
- not enjoying activities they usually enjoy
- suicidal ideas
Men are more likely to accomplish suicide even though women attempt suicide more frequently. Consequently, men:
- use techniques more likely to result in death, including guns
- possibly more impulsive when acting on suicidal thoughts
- lessen the warning indicators, such as discussing suicide
Try out some coping mechanisms
Small lifestyle changes can have a big impact on how you feel on a daily basis. Try experimenting with some of these suggestions to gradually feel much better and enhance your mood:
- Try to relax using these methods: When you’re dealing with high levels of anxiety, visualizations, breathing exercises, and meditations are excellent strategies to feel calmer and more relaxed.
- Get outside and exercise: Exercise is one of the best ways to improve mood since it causes the brain to create feel-good endorphins. A quick walk can be plenty to get things started.
- Reduce your alcohol intake: While drinking can still be tempting when you’re worried or unhappy, its depressing effects can eventually make you worse. If you do drink, try to limit how much you consume; you’ll quickly notice how much better you feel.
- Remain social: People are by nature social beings. Our relationships with friends and family help us feel less lonely. Even if it can be challenging at times, strive to continue socializing with your loved ones.
Speak with a trusted person
You may believe that you are fighting mental illness alone, but in reality, you probably have a large network of allies nearby who can see a problem.
If you’re comfortable doing so, express your feelings. Sometimes all we need to feel a lot better is a sympathetic ear. They could even be able to provide suggestions for workable next steps.
Treatment
Mental health concerns can be treated with success. Men may find it difficult to ask for assistance, yet delaying care could make the condition worse.
Consult your doctor or a mental health expert if you are exhibiting any of the symptoms.
Get assistance right away if you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or dial 911. read full article
