New Hope MHCLC: A Whole Person Approach

Men’s Mental Health Matters

As June dives into July, it’s essential to reflect on two crucial observances: June, which is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, and July, dedicated to Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. These months highlight significant yet often overlooked aspects of mental health, particularly concerning men. While the importance of mental health awareness for youth, women, and children is widely recognized and discussed, men’s mental health remains shrouded in silence. It’s time to change that narrative.

The Quiet Crisis of Men’s Mental Health

Men’s mental health struggles often fly under the radar. Despite being celebrated every June, Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month doesn’t receive the same level of attention or noise as other mental health observances. This lack of visibility is alarming, especially considering the statistics:

• 1 in 8 men in the United States experience depression at some point in their lives.
• 1 in 5 men will experience anxiety.
• Men are less likely to seek treatment for mental health issues, often due to societal expectations and stigma.

The culture of stoicism and pride that many men are conditioned to uphold often prevents them from reaching out for help. This silence can be deadly; suicide rates among men are alarmingly high, with men being nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women.

Minority Men and Mental Health: A Double Burden

As we move further into July, Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, the focus shifts to a more nuanced aspect of the mental health crisis. Minority men face a double burden: the general stigma surrounding men’s mental health and the unique challenges associated with their cultural and racial identities. Statistics reveal a troubling reality:

• Black men are 20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems than the general population.
• Hispanic men report higher levels of depressive symptoms than their white counterparts.
• Asian American and Pacific Islander men are the least likely of any racial group to seek mental health services.

White men are not exempt from suffering from mental health issues, and it’s important to acknowledge the various factors contributing to this issue. Socioeconomic disparities, discrimination, and the lack of culturally competent mental health care can have a significant impact on the mental well-being of individuals. Additionally, societal expectations and stereotypes about masculinity can create barriers for white men in seeking mental health support, leading to underreporting and undertreatment of their psychological concerns. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that considers the intersection of gender, race, and socioeconomic status in mental health care accessibility and delivery.

The Pride That Kills

One of the most insidious aspects of the mental health crisis among men is the role of pride. Many men are taught from a young age to be tough, self-reliant, and unemotional. This pride can lead to dangerous outcomes. Many men say that women are too emotional, and live suppressing theirs, as they seek to appear tough. The reality is that that is a myth, women simply express their emotions differently:

• Men are less likely to talk about their feelings or admit when they are struggling.
• They may turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse or aggression.
• The reluctance to seek help can result in untreated mental health issues, worsening over time and potentially leading to suicide.

A Call to Action

Addressing the mental health needs of men, especially minority men, requires a concerted effort from all of us. Here are some steps we can take:

1. Raise Awareness: Talk about men’s mental health openly. Share information and resources, especially during June and July, to keep the conversation alive.
2. Promote Inclusivity in Mental Health Services: Ensure that mental health services are accessible and culturally competent for minority men.
3. Encourage Vulnerability: Challenge the stigma around men expressing their emotions. Encourage the men in your life to talk about their feelings and seek help when needed.
4. Support Mental Health Initiatives: Support organizations and initiatives that focus on men’s mental health and minority mental health.

By recognizing and addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by men, we can work towards a more inclusive and supportive mental health landscape. Let’s make some noise, break the silence, and show that men’s mental health matters every month of the year.

©️ 2024 Denise Kilby New Hope MHCLC Assoc. All rights reserved.