Men’s mental health is increasingly becoming an issue of concern because of the recent rise in the suicidal rate across the globe. Studies by World Health Organization (WHO) show that twice as men than women die by suicide in a day. In addition, there are much more issues that threaten the mental health of men and these include work situations, difficult relationships and financial problems. It is the essence of this article to explore the cause, effects, and solutions to men’s mental health challenges.
Men’s mental health issues are often not attended to but it is a subject of concern over the years.. As a result of these problems (loss of loved ones, financial problems, etc.), the death toll of men has risen expeditiously, especially by suicide. Three times as men as women die by suicide according to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. According to the American Journal of Public Health, men who internalize stigma are less likely to seek psychological help and this struggle will result in serious mental health challenges.
Celebrities on men’s health
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.
“Struggle and pain is real. I was devastated and depressed,” Johnson said in an interview with The Daily Express. “I reached a point where I didn’t want to do a thing or go anywhere. I was crying constantly.”
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson said “Regardless of who you are or what you do for a living, [depression] doesn’t discriminate… The key thing I found is… especially (for) us as guys… you got to talk about it, you’re not alone.”
The mental health investment case for Zimbabwe was launched alongside the Special Initiative for Mental Health by the Vice President and Minister of Health and Child Care, Hon. Gen. (Rtd) Dr. Constantine N. Chiwenga on the 21st of July 2021. This was a way for combating the current mental health challenges in Zimbabwe.
Studies show that most men do not share their problems and keep their problems to themselves. This is due to several reasons which include:
1. Primary socialization.
Young boys are normally taught to be tough and to endure pain, difficulties and situations as it is believed that their physical nature of masculinity has to be fulfilled.
2. Gender stereotyping.
- Men are, by society expected to possess certain characteristics or traits. This is harmful as it limits or restrains men who are in need of mental health to seek for it
With the causes and effects established, there are mitigatory measures to ensure that men’s mental health is prioritized. These might include;
1. Combat gender stereotyping
A gender stereotype is harmful when it limits men’s capacity to develop their personal abilities, pursue their professional careers, and/or make choices about their lives. When they are removed, this reduces the pressure on men hence reducing the mental health issues in men.
2. Talking.
Studies show that most men do not prefer talking about anything that bothers them and most people who attend therapies are women. This shows that most men are not willing to talk about their life issues. Hence this increases suicide rates and depression. Therefore, men should be encouraged to talk about their issues with at least one person they trust.
3. Avoid using alcohol and drugs.
Drugs and alcohol intoxicated the brain with might result in post-alcohol and drug anxiety. Therefore, men should be encouraged to reduce alcohol consumption or for the best abstain from it to improve their mental help.
In conclusion, studies show that males are reluctant to talk about their mental health and are more likely to die by suicide than females. However, healthcare professionals and society at large should take note of the causes of ill-mental health in men such as gender stereotyping to address mental health challenges in men.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention,
American Journal of Public Health, World Health Organization (WHO), The Daily Express
Ethan Tema is a consultant at Human Capital Experts
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