MONDAY, June 12, 2023 (HealthDay News) — Men typically don’t need to discuss mental health issues, much less get treatment for one.
That’s an issue, given what number of males struggle with mental health problems: Six million American men suffer from depression yearly, while 3 million struggle with anxiety disorder, in response to Mental Health America. Beyond that, 90% of those diagnosed with schizophrenia by age 30 are men, and 25% of those with binge eating disorder are males. Unfortunately, men are less more likely to seek skilled help for his or her problems.
On the subject of suicide, the image can be troubling. While women usually tend to attempt suicide, it’s the seventh leading explanation for death amongst males, and white men over the age of 85 are the most definitely to die by suicide.
Here, experts describe the most typical mental health conditions men experience, the symptoms that will differ in men versus women, and what resources can be found for those searching for help and treatment options.
Common mental health conditions in men
In response to Mental Health America, essentially the most common men’s mental health conditions are:
“It’s an indication of strength to discuss these issues along with your health care provider, counselor or a supportive member of the family or friend,” Piedmont Healthcare family medicine physician Dr. Siraj Abdullah said in a recent article. “As men, we are inclined to let stress construct up until it affects our mental and physical health. Talking about your mental health is a strategy to care for your body.”
How men’s mental health symptoms may show up in a different way than in women
The explanations that mental health symptoms will be different for men and girls are complex, in response to McLean Hospital chief of psychology Kathryn McHugh.
She noted in a hospital article that “biology isn’t the one piece of the puzzle. There are also many social and cultural aspects that play a task in mental health and wellness, resembling social role expectations, discrimination and violence.”
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America states that the fundamental mental health symptoms in men that could be different from those present in women are:
- Abuse or misuse of medication or alcohol
- Noticeable changes in mood, appetite or energy levels
- Violent, controlling or abusive behavior
- Digestive issues, headaches and pain
- Escaping into work, sports or other distracting behavior
- Risk-taking
Men with depression are also more likely than women to report symptoms of fatigue and lack of interest in work or hobbies, in response to Mental Health America.
Men and suicide
Men are particularly prone to suicide. In response to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men are 4 times more more likely to die by suicide than women, and gay and bisexual men under the age of 25 are at the next risk for attempting suicide than the final male population, in response to Mental Health America.
The Suicide Prevention Resource Center notes that considered one of the explanations for higher male suicide rates is that men are less more likely to get mental health care than women. The middle suggests getting help before a mental health crisis occurs. This could include:
- Looking for behavioral health care, resembling seeing a therapist
- Connecting to family, friends, community and social organizations
- Learning life skills like problem-solving and techniques for adapting to vary
- Engaging with spiritual, religious or other belief practices that discourage suicide
If you happen to’d prefer to begin or proceed a behavioral health care plan, you possibly can reach out to the SAMHSA National Helpline for a treatment referral.
Men’s mental health resources: Learn how to get help
The American Psychological Association offers a database of hundreds of therapists. Just put in your ZIP code, provider name or practice area. Once the outcomes show up, you possibly can sort the psychologists by quite a lot of categories, resembling gender and treatment methods.
If you happen to’re in search of a men’s mental health hotline to debate your issues confidentially at no charge, the Mental Health Hotline provides a toll-free number with counselors on stand-by 24/7. The organization also lists several condition-specific hotlines for health issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and more — plus links to helpful resources on these conditions.
Fictional Dr. Wealthy Mahogany “runs” this site, which is definitely administered by multiple agencies, including the Colorado Department of Public Health. It combines helpful mental health techniques and quizzes with humor and a uniquely human touch. There’s a web-based peer chat, 20-point head inspection and a worried-about-someone page to assist family members of men who could also be experiencing mental health issues.
Multicultural care meets mutual aid at Therapy for Black Men, where the coaches and counselors strive to supply free or discounted services to Black men with mental health issues. You may meet in person or online for a session, and there’s also a bunch of articles and social resources, including community organizations aimed toward helping your mental health thrive.
Mental health medications
Several medications could also be prescribed by your doctor to provide help to improve your mental health. In response to the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health, these include:
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Antipsychotics
- Stimulants
- Mood stabilizers
If you happen to’re experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal ideation and want to discuss with someone, call 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline offers free, confidential emotional support across the USA, 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.