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Understanding Men’s Mental Health: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment
Mental health issues affect people of all genders. Still, men—and the stereotypes surrounding masculinity—may be less likely to seek help when their mental health is suffering. That’s why it’s so important to learn more about men’s mental health: how to recognize when someone may need help, what resources and treatments are available, and how to have conversations about this serious topic.
What are the Signs of Men’s Mental Health Issues?
The signs of mental health issues in men can vary, but there are some common warning signs to look out for. If someone is exhibiting some of these behaviors, it could be a sign that they’re struggling with their mental health:
- Social withdrawal – someone who’s mentally healthy typically enjoys social situations, hobbies, and activities; if someone suddenly stops engaging in these activities, it could be a sign that something’s wrong.
- Anger or aggression – Males may be more likely to express their stress or difficulty by lashing out at other people or displaying other signs of aggression.
- Change in eating habits – someone’s mental health can affect their appetite, leading to dramatic changes in how much food they eat.
- Changes in sleep habits – Sleep issues can be a sign of mental health problems, whether it is difficulty falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much or too little.
- Recurring substance use– Substance abuse is a common issue for people with mental health issues and can be a sign of a problem.
Getting Help for Men’s Mental Health
The first step for many people looking for help for mental health issues is finding the right therapist. Usually, a psychologist or psychiatrist is the best choice for mental health treatment. It can also be helpful to find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist if applicable, since they may have a better understanding of the issues and be more comfortable providing support.
Another option for seeking help or support is to join a support group or community. These often offer a safe space to talk about mental health challenges in a judgment-free environment.
Tips for Supporting Men’s Mental Health
There are many ways that you can support men as they seek help for mental health challenges. Here are a few tips for how to best support someone:
- Set aside your opinions and judgements – the most important thing is that someone feels heard and supported, not judged.
- Be patient – Mental health issues are rarely fixed overnight. Give your support and let someone know that it’s okay to take their time.
- Be encouraging – Men, in particular, may be sometimes reluctant to seek help. When possible, try to give words of encouragement to get them to take the first steps.
- Help them find resources – there are many resources available for men’s mental health, including counselors, support groups, and other organizations. Do some research and find resources that could help your friend or loved one.
Although mental health issues can be challenging, with the right help and support, it’s possible to make great strides toward feeling better. Supporting men’s mental health is an important task, and can help create a world where no one feels ashamed to get the help they need.