June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a crucial time to address the often overlooked issue of men’s mental health. Despite significant strides in mental health awareness, societal stigmas impede many men struggling with mental health issues or shame them for asking for help. This month aims to break down these barriers, encouraging men to speak up and seek help.
Mental health issues affect everyone, but men may face unique challenges in the United States. Historical gender roles pressure men to appear strong and self-reliant, discouraging them from expressing vulnerability or emotions – for fear of being seen as weak. Now we all need to have grit and perseverance because life is rough. However, suppressing emotions and stress may lead to higher levels of stress hormones being present in the body, which may lead to short and long-term medical and mental health challenges.
Common Mental Health Issues in Men
Men can experience a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse. Depression in men may manifest as irritability, anger, or aggression, rather than sadness or loss of energy, making it harder to recognize. Anxiety in men might arise with preoccupied thoughts about the future or constant worry about things not in their realm of control. PTSD occurs from traumatic events and can negatively impact men’s relationships, levels of self-esteem, and contribute to rapid changes in mood. Consequentially, substance abuse may arise as a means to cope with internal stressors that don’t fade with time.
Break the Stigma
One of the main goals of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is to dismantle the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. As awareness builds, open conversations about mental health struggles will naturally come forth. High-profile figures and celebrities who share their experiences can also play a significant role in normalizing these discussions i.e. The Rock and Elon Musk share their experiences with mental health and stress. Public campaigns, organized events, and social media movements also help spread awareness and encourage men to seek support.
Seeking Help
Sometimes men are not aware they need help or support. There are numerous resources available for men struggling with mental health issues. Therapy, support groups, fitness groups, and hotlines – all provide different forms of assistance and a sense of community. Online platforms have also made mental health treatment more accessible in recent years. Encouraging men to take the first step in seeking help is vital. It’s important to remind them that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous act of self-care, self-growth, and desire to change.
Supporting a Loved One
If you have a man in your life who might be struggling with mental health issues, your support can make a significant difference. Encourage open conversations, offer to help them find resources, and be patient and understanding. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can be a crucial first step towards recovery. On the other hand, pushing a man, or anyone for that matter, to attend therapy may cause more resistance. Being open and non-judgmental is crucial throughout this process.
Men’s Therapy in Kenosha, WI
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a reminder that mental health issues do not discriminate by gender, race, ethnicity, or location for that matter. If you are looking for a local therapist, click on the link in the next section to start the process. Let’s work together to create an environment where everyone feels empowered to seek the help they need.
If this blog resonates with you or you know someone who could benefit from individual therapy, submit an online form here or call Revitalize Mental Health PLLC at 720.295.6703 to see how therapy can help you heal.