June is Men’s National Health Month. This national observance is used to bring more awareness to men’s health issues that often go unnoticed, untreated, or minimized.
The goal is to encourage men to incorporate healthier practices such physical exercise, healthy eating, and preventive health measures into their life. Men’s mental health is an important yet often overlooked health concern.
Treating mental health issues early can often prevent symptoms from becoming more severe and decrease the risk of complications. If you notice the symptoms below in yourself or a loved one observes them, it is a good idea to seek medical help.
Mental health issues affect men and women differently. Men’s issues often stem from societal expectations and traditional gender roles. They may think that they must provide financially for their family and rely on oneself and not seek assistance form others. They display traditional masculine traits such as strength and control and do not speak freely about their emotions.
Men are less likely than women to seek treatment for mental health issues. This is due to social norms and downplaying symptoms. Additionally, they are reluctant to talk. While women are more likely to experience mental health conditions than men and attempt suicide, men are more than 3.5 times more likely to die from suicide than women.
Several factors increase the risk of mental health conditions and suicide among men. They are trauma, employment issues, marital breakdown, legal or financial issues, misuse of drugs and alcohol, family history of mental health issues and other life challenges. White men 85 years and older are most at risk for suicide. More men in this demographic die by suicide every year than in any other group by age, sex, or race.
Treating mental health issues early can often prevent symptoms from becoming more severe and decrease the risk of complications. If you notice the symptoms below in yourself or a loved one observes them, it is a good idea to seek medical help. If necessary, help the person locate a suitable provider and attend treatment with them. If someone is at risk of suicide, do not leave them alone. Call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
- Aggressiveness, anger, and irritability
- Mood changes or energy levels
- Changes in sleep habits and appetite.
- Difficult focusing
- Feeling restless or “on edge.”
- A high consumption of alcohol
- Drug use
- Feeling sad, hopeless, numb, or emotionally “flat.”
- Aches and pain and other physical complaints without a clear cause
- Obsessive or compulsive thoughts or behavior
- Thinking or acting in a way that causes concern and negatively impact work, social or family life.
- Thinking about or attempting suicide
Even though many men are reluctant to seek and continue treatment for mental health issues, it is an important step in recovery. With effective treatment, men can learn to manage their symptoms and lead a productive life. Having the support of loved ones can be impactful in the recovery experience.
This is a great time to show support by contacting the men in your life and check in on their stress management and emotional health. It is also a great time to encourage them to schedule their annual physical exam if they have not done so. This may “open the door” to conversations that are often shunned and help normalize discussions about mental and physical health.
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References
A summary of the article written by Jayne Leonard; reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, PhD, PsyD: published in Medical News Today.com, November 8, 2020
