Men’s mental health has long been overshadowed by traditional views of masculinity, which often discourage emotional openness. However, it's time to reshape the conversation, recognizing that vulnerability, rather than strength alone, is crucial for men's well-being.
The Global Mental Health Crisis: Men’s Reluctance to Seek Help
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability globally. While depression affects both genders, men are less likely to seek help. A study commissioned by the UK-based Priory Group revealed that 77% of men surveyed experienced symptoms of anxiety, stress, or depression, yet 40% never confided in anyone about their mental health. Common stressors include work pressures, financial concerns, and health issues. Tragically, suicide rates for men are significantly higher than for women, with men in many countries, including India, experiencing rates two to three times higher.
Men often adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse, which can create a dangerous cycle. For men in marginalized communities, the intersection of race, socio-economic status, and mental health challenges can compound the struggle.
The Impact of Traditional Masculinity
Cultural stereotypes surrounding masculinity contribute to the stigma men face when dealing with mental health. Phrases like "Boys don’t cry" or "Man up" reinforce the idea that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness. As gender equality specialist Asgeir Persson points out, this discourages men from understanding and sharing their feelings, leading to emotional isolation.
Kalpesh More, founder of Biraadari, an online men's group, observes that men often normalize mental health struggles, such as anger or stress, without recognizing the need for intervention. The disparity in access to mental health resources between urban and rural areas further exacerbates the issue, especially in countries like India.
Breaking Free from the Constraints of Masculine Norms
To address this, it’s essential to rethink the concept of masculinity. Social movements such as ‘Movember,’ which focuses on raising awareness about men’s health issues, are pushing the boundaries of traditional masculinity. According to Anoop Rao, founder of ReLife, men need safe spaces where they can drop the façade of invulnerability and express their fears and emotions, whether with friends, at work, or in their personal lives.
Indian cultural wisdom, such as the concept of Ardhanareeshwara—a fusion of masculine and feminine energies—offers an inspiring model for achieving balance and emotional integration. Jungian psychology has also explored how masculine and feminine traits can coexist within individuals, fostering a more holistic approach to mental health.
Redefining "Manliness": A Healthier Approach
Reframing what it means to be "manly" is crucial for encouraging healthier expressions of masculinity. Men must be encouraged to speak openly about mental health and provided with the necessary tools and safe spaces to do so. Persson advocates for creating such spaces where men can share their struggles without fear of judgment or stigma.
Recognizing the Signs: How to Support Men’s Mental Health
While both men and women can experience the same mental health conditions, the signs in men may look different. Common symptoms to watch for include:
Increased anger, irritability, or aggression
Substance abuse (alcohol or drugs)
Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
Risk-taking behaviors
Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
Suicidal thoughts
Taking Action: Simple Steps Towards Mental Wellness
While societal movements help raise awareness, men can take personal steps toward better mental health by learning to identify and communicate their emotions. As Persson suggests, finding a trustworthy friend to confide in and gradually building a safe space for emotional expression can be a helpful first step.
It's also important to recognize that family and friends, though supportive, may not always have the expertise to handle serious mental health conditions. Rao recommends seeking professional help when needed, rather than relying solely on loved ones.
Hope on the Horizon: A Shift in Men’s Mental Health Conversations
Although challenges remain, positive trends are emerging. Campaigns like Movember and the growing visibility of mental health issues in popular media are helping break down long-standing taboos. According to Rao, greater awareness and emphasis on mental health in schools and parenting can help reshape societal attitudes and promote healthier forms of masculinity.
Self-care should also be a priority. By making mental health a central focus, men can begin to combat feelings of isolation and foster stronger, more supportive relationships. Healing is most effective in relational spaces, where men can connect and support each other.
The future of men’s mental health lies in adopting a more inclusive, intersectional approach that recognizes the complex, multi-dimensional nature of men’s mental health challenges and works to address them at every level.
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