The stigma surrounding mental health has been gradually fading in recent years. More people acknowledge the importance of mental well-being and seek professional help when needed.
However, a considerable disparity exists between men and women in seeking help for mental health issues. Research shows that men are less likely to ask for help or talk about their mental health struggles than women. In 2021, a total of 3,134 people in Australia took their own lives and precisely 75% were men. On average, suicide claims the lives of six men and two women every day.
This article delves into the reasons behind this disparity and the barriers preventing men from seeking the help they need.
What Prevents Men from Asking for Help with Their Mental Health?
Society has perpetuated the idea that men should be strong, stoic, and self-reliant. These cultural expectations often lead men to believe that they should be able to handle their problems independently and that asking for help is a sign of weakness.
This societal pressure to “man up” and adhere to traditional gender stereotypes hinder men from seeking help for mental health issues.
From a young age, boys are frequently instructed to hide their feelings and not display weaknesses. This stifling of emotions can cause men to have trouble acknowledging and admitting that they need assistance with their mental well-being. Consequently, they tend to minimize their challenges and avoid asking for help.
There is also the fear of judgment, another significant barrier for men when seeking help for mental health issues. Men worry about being judged by their friends, family, or colleagues if they admit to struggling with their mental health. This fear can lead to shame and embarrassment, discouraging men from sharing their experiences.
In addition, men may be hesitant to seek help from mental health professionals due to concerns about confidentiality and privacy. They may worry about their personal information being disclosed to others or the potential consequences of their mental health struggles being known within their social or professional circles. Future career implications further compound the issue.
The lack of understanding and information regarding mental health and available support resources may cause men to hesitate in reaching out. Although much public effort has been undertaken in recent years, a shortage of materials within universities, schools and workplaces can result in men not identifying when they require support and being unaware of how to get in touch with the right services.
Furthermore, there is often a misconception that mental health issues are less severe or debilitating than physical health issues. This lack of understanding can lead to men dismissing their mental health struggles as less important or deserving of professional attention.
Masculine Norms in Healthcare
The healthcare system can sometimes perpetuate masculine norms that contribute to men’s reluctance to seek help for mental health issues.
For instance, men may fear that healthcare professionals will not take their concerns seriously or will be dismissed as trivial. The traditional doctor-patient relationship can also deter men who may be uncomfortable discussing their emotions and mental health struggles.
Moreover, there is a lack of male-specific mental health services and support groups in many areas. The psychology industry across Australia, and likely other western countries, is dominated by female psychologists and therapists. This absence of targeted services can make it difficult for men to find relatable and accessible support.
Addressing the barriers that prevent men from seeking help for their mental health is an important consideration to improving the overall well-being of our society. Encouraging open conversations about mental health and challenging traditional gender stereotypes can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health for men.
Education and awareness campaigns targeting men can help increase their knowledge about mental health issues and available support services. Healthcare providers must also ensure that their services are accessible, relatable, and appealing to men, creating an environment where men feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns.
Final Thoughts
“It takes more courage to reveal insecurities than to hide them, more strength to relate to people than to dominate them, more ‘manhood’ to abide by thought-out principles rather than blind reflex. Toughness is in the soul and spirit, not in muscles and an immature mind.” – Alex Karras, athlete, actor, and author.
By acknowledging that mental health is equally important as physical health, and reaching out for professional assistance, demonstrates strength rather than weakness. In so doing, men with mental health concerns can feel encouraged and confident to ask for help when needed.
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