The Silent Stigma of Men’s Mental Health
Did you know…
More than 4 times as many men than women die by suicide in the United States?
According to the Movember Foundation, 1 in 4 adults in the United Stated will experience a mental health problem in a given year. Additionally, they state that 3 out of 4 suicides are men. Why are men more at risk for suicide? Are we doing enough to provide resources for men that need help?
Truth is, when men experience feelings of stress, sadness or depression, they are less likely to find a way to deal with their emotions rather than address them head on. Women tend to confide in others and find outlets that allow them to cope with their feelings, such as seeking out mental health or speaking to a family member or a friend. Men have the preconceived notion that seeking help may make them seem weak or vulnerable. There is a stigma around being a man that they are unable to shake: that mental health does not affect them.
In addition to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255, there are resources that men can seek out if they are feeling depressed or suicidal. Mentalhealth.org is a resource for anyone that is seeking out help or would like more information regarding a suicidal loved one. Youth.gov is a youth-centered resource that provides information regarding suicide prevention and resources for suicidal individuals.
More specifically, the Movember Foundation has created a resource for men called Heads Up Guys (headsupguys.org) that provides tips on how to deal with depression, how to take action or fight against depression and what to do if a loved one of your is experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts. They state that common symptoms of depression in men may be:
-Physical pain such as headaches, problems sleeping, sexual dysfunction or digestive issues.
-Increased anger including irritability, road-rage, losing their temper easily, verbally and physically abusing others.
-Reckless behavior including dangerous activities, reckless driving, using drugs or drinking more often.
The Movember Foundation, through Heads Up Guys, provides many resources that men can utilize if they are feeling depressed or having suicidal thoughts. They are dedicated to showing that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength to take their mental health into their own hands.
During the month of November, the Movember Foundation encourages men to grow out their mustaches in efforts to spark conversation about men’s health. They encourage men to seek out professional help for preventative care and to address medical conditions, whether that be physical or mental.
Do you want to be a part of the fight for men’s health? Join 24 Hour Home Care and the Movember Foundation today by clicking here!