Tirell et al.’s research shows that “men are likely to die by suicide than women. In the United States, men account for nearly 75% of all suicides” and “men are less likely to seek help for mental health than women.” These statistics reveal a troubling reality about men’s mental health. A topic that is often overlooked. I know firsthand how hard it can be to express your emotions, for a while I used to think that staying silent was a sign of strength. But it only made things worse. I willingly had to reach out. Once I did, I realized that it wasn’t weakness… it’s healing.
Men’s mental health is as important as oxygen. The same way we need air to survive is the same way we need to discuss the importance of men’s mental health. Nicole Greene suggests “there are many different reasons why men are less likely to speak up about their mental health problems like depression. Men who have diagnosed mental issues do nothing about it they think admitting it makes them weak.” The stereotypical grasps about men who show emotion are weak has such a stronghold on us men and needs to be broken! Greene continues by saying, “They don’t want to go to the pharmacy and pick up an anti-depressant because they are afraid, they will be judged.” Men tend to believe that their every move is being watched. They feel that someone will always criticize their every movement, especially when it comes to things that can help them.
At my church, we throw different events like youth conferences, marriage counseling, and men and women’s conferences. In recent years, the women’s conferences seemed to be prioritized over men’s. At the men’s conference, we didn’t get as much depth as we wanted to. They sort of gave the feeling of an intervention.
Men need to learn to put their pride aside and understand that asking for help is a sign of strength and not weakness. According to a 2023 study at the Butler Hospital, “mental health issues can have a ripple effect on those around them, including family members, friends, and colleagues.” Being sad makes others feel sad. This is why it is good to always surround yourself with peace and positivity. The more you do so, the more changes you’ll see not only in your life but in others as well. As a man who struggles with mental health, knowing how to address your mental health can also impact others who struggle. They can see your testimony as proof that they are not alone. We can break this generational stronghold behind the stereotype that men who show emotion are weak. As I mentioned earlier; men need to learn to put their pride aside.
The stigma forcing men to suffer in silence must come to an end. By normalizing emotional vulnerability, we empower men to seek help, because true strength lies in prioritizing mental well-being.
Be the first to comment