Men Mental Health Month

Men’s mental health has been long overlooked in the society, but thankfully there is now more awareness being raised around this important issue. June is celebrated as Men’s Mental Health Month with the aim of encouraging men to prioritize their mental health just like they do for physical health. In this article, we will explore some common mental health issues that affect men, the importance of raising awareness about men’s mental health, strategies for maintaining good mental health and ways to improve men’s mental health.

Common Mental Health Issues in MenDepression

Mental illnesses do not discriminate based on gender; however, research shows that men are less likely to seek help or talk about their struggles with mental illness. Here are some common mental health issues that affect men:

Depression

Depression is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can have severe consequences if left untreated. Men might not express sadness or hopelessness like women do, but they are more likely to exhibit irritability, anger or aggression when dealing with depression.

Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are also prevalent among men. They can manifest in various forms such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic attacks, social anxiety disorder (SAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Anxiety can lead to negative thoughts, physical discomfort and affect daily functioning.

Addiction

Men tend to resort to alcohol consumption or drugs as a coping mechanism for dealing with stress or emotional pain. Substance abuse can develop into addiction and cause significant harm to one’s life.

The Importance of Raising Awareness

Raising awareness about mental illness helps reduce stigma associated with it and encourages people to seek help when needed. Here are some reasons why raising awareness about men’s mental health is essential

Stop The Stigma

Men often hesitate from seeking help due to societal expectations around masculinity which reinforces the idea that seeking help signifies weakness. By raising awareness and promoting an open dialogue around men’s struggles with their emotions will encourage them to come forward and get professional help.

Prevent Suicide

Suicide rates among men are alarmingly high compared to women due to lack of support systems or not feeling comfortable discussing their feelings openly. According to recent statistics published by WHO states that suicide accounted for 1 in 5 deaths globally among males aged between 15-29 years old.

Strategies For Maintaining Good Mental Health

Here are some strategies for maintaining good mental health:

Mindfulness Meditation

Practice mindfulness mediation - which involves focusing your attention on the present moment – can reduce stress levels significantly.

Exercise

Exercise releases endorphins which boost mood levels and helps maintain good physical fitness

Sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining optimal brain function while aiding in reducing stress levels

Talk To Someone

Sharing thoughts & feelings with someone you trust who isn’t judgmental can help relieve emotional burden & explore various options available.

Counseling/Therapy

Qualified counselors/therapists use scientifically proven methods & techniques depending on individual cases capable of combating depression/anxiety Closing Paragraph:Men should prioritize their psychological well-being by acknowledging their emotions without making them feel judged or inadequate during Men’s Mental Health Month this June month; taking care of our minds should be no different than taking care of our bodies, both require equal amount of attention if we want a sound healthy lifestyle.

If you like this article and also want to get more knowledge about Men’s Mental Health. Here are some awesome audiobooks that you should listen and share it with your love ones.

1. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson

2. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

3. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

4. The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor

5. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

Thank you!