Men ignoring mental health: Silent crisis making 1 in 8 men experience depression, anxiety

Hyderabad: Mental health has long been overlooked when it comes to men, even though it impacts their well-being, relationships and overall quality of life.

The WHO emphasised that one in eight men will experience depression or anxiety in their lifetime, yet many suffer in silence due to stigma and societal expectations. Here’s an in-depth look at male mental health, its challenges and potential solutions.

Understanding male mental health

Mental health is a state of emotional, psychological and social well-being that affects how individuals think, feel and interact with others. It is a crucial aspect of overall health. However, men are disproportionately affected by mental health issues:

• Men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide than women.

• Depression is a leading cause of disability in men aged 15–44, according to mental health specialists.

Dr Anjali Mohapatra, a psychiatrist from Hyderabad, explained, “Mental health challenges in men often go unnoticed because many men feel pressured to appear strong and invulnerable. This leads to delays in seeking help, which worsens their condition.”

The struggles men face

Cultural norms often label men as protectors, providers and decision-makers, putting them under immense pressure. This pressure, combined with societal expectations, contributes to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and depression.

Many men avoid counselling because they fear being perceived as weak. Dr Mohapatra elaborated, “Men have internalised the belief that showing vulnerability is a sign of incompetence. This perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health.”

Research also shows that men’s reluctance to discuss their emotions and seek professional help exacerbates the cycle of neglect in addressing their mental health.

The connection between physical and mental health

Mental and physical health are closely interrelated.

Experts say that individuals with physical illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease are three times more likely to seek mental health care than those without physical issues. Conversely, mental health challenges can increase the risk of developing physical illnesses.

Key findings from the World Health Organization (WHO):

• Patients with Type II Diabetes are twice as likely to experience depression.

• Depression increases the risk of heart attacks by more than twofold.

• Up to 50% of cancer patients suffer from anxiety or depression.

“Mental and physical health are intertwined,” said Dr Amit Mehta, a mental health expert. “Addressing mental health in men can significantly improve their physical well-being and vice versa.”

Barriers to seeking help

Men face several obstacles in accessing mental health services, including:

• Financial constraints.

• Lack of awareness about available resources.

• Fear of being judged or stigmatized.

Dr Mehta emphasised, “Breaking these barriers requires collective efforts, including awareness campaigns, affordable services, and creating safe spaces for men to talk openly about their struggles.”

Promoting male psychological well-being

1. Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness about male mental health can encourage men to recognise when they need help. Educational initiatives can inform men about the effects of mental health issues and available resources.

2. Open Communication: Encouraging men to express their emotions and share their experiences is crucial. “We need to normalise conversations about mental health,” said Dr Sharma.

3. Improving Access to Services: Ensuring accessible mental health care, such as therapy and counselling, can make a significant difference. Governments and organisations must address barriers like cost and stigma.

4. Encouraging supportive activities: Engaging in activities like sports, community service or social clubs can help men build connections and improve their mental health.

5. Promoting Self-Care: Self-care practices such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition and mindfulness can improve both physical and mental health. According to a recent study in England, individuals who exercise three times a week reduce their risk of depression by 19 per cent.