Mental Health for Men: Awareness and Advice

Published on: February 2, 2021
Updated on: February 2, 2024
Author: Kentucky Counseling Center

Mental health issues can affect anyone—regardless of age or gender. Yet, due to societal expectations about “masculinity,” it’s often harder to identify or talk about mental health problems in men. Research shows that men are more likely to die by suicide, partly because social pressures discourage them from becoming vulnerable or seeking help. Below, we discuss why mental health awareness in men is crucial, common mental health conditions men face, and how to access help.

Why Mental Health Awareness for Men Matters

Early Detection and Treatment

Addressing mental health problems starts with awareness—knowing the signs and when to seek help. Like any other disease, the earlier the detection, the better the odds of effective treatment. Instead of viewing it as a sign of weakness, men should embrace the idea that looking after their mental health is a responsible and proactive choice that benefits not only themselves but also their families and communities.

Breaking the Stigma

Cultural norms often promote the idea that men must be tough and self-reliant, leaving them reluctant to share emotional struggles or traumatic experiences. By normalizing mental health discussions and professional support, we encourage men to prioritize their well-being without feeling like they’re compromising their masculinity.

What Causes Mental Illness Among Men?

By knowing what causes mental illness in men, you should be more aware if a friend, loved one, or someone you know is going through a rough mental state. The gender stereotype among men to be tough and brave causes them not to seek help. But when you see these causes of mental illness in men, it’s something that can’t be denied. 

• Genes and Family History: Genetics plays a role in mental health illness for both men and women. So if you have an uncle, cousin, or grandfather who had a mental health problem, this suggests potential roots. 
• Physical Problems or Sickness: Men who suffer from illness, especially affecting their way of living, can cause mental health problems (e.g., cancer, amputated limb, erectile dysfunction).
• Relationship Problems: A bad marriage, divorce, or being stuck in an abusive relationship may be a cause of mental health illness among men. 
• Employment Problems: If a man gets fired from his job, did not get that promotion, closed his business, or is unhappy about his career, it can be a cause of mental problems too. 
• Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Those who abuse illegal drugs or alcohol are at risk of developing mental health problems. It may also be a sign that a person is experiencing depression and is just covering it by abusing alcohol or illegal drugs. 
• Chemical Imbalances of the Brain: Factors such as aging, diseases, injury, chronic stress, or poor nutrition may lead to a chemical imbalance in a person. An example is Schizophrenia – where chemical or neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate are imbalanced.
• Traumatic Experiences: Men who had a traumatic life experience are at risk of developing a mental disorder. An example is men who were in combat who experiences post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

What Are the Common Mental Health Conditions in Men?

Some men are embarrassed to get help and mental treatment because they are concerned about what other people might think about them. But here’s something we should be really worried about: 

• The common mental health conditions in men are Post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, bipolar, eating disorder, and Schizophrenia. 
• Men are more likely to commit suicide than women.
• Six million men in the United States suffer from depression every year. 
• More men are dying due to alcohol abuse disorders (e.g., cirrhosis) as compared to women. 
• Men are most likely to abuse drugs compared to women. 
• Men are less likely to access therapy as compared to women. 
• Many men with undiagnosed mental health conditions are more likely to inflict self-harm or violence towards others. 

Why Do Men Not Talk About Their Mental Health?

As mentioned earlier, men do not seek help for their mental health because they see it as a sign of weakness. The expectations of society and gender roles play a part in this stigma. There are expectations for men to be strong and dominant as the head of the household. 

Men do not speak about their emotions openly. It is part of a man’s nature to keep their problems to themselves, even to their partners. That is why awareness is important, so men will know that seeking help for their mental welfare is necessary. 

When Do I Seek Help for My Mental Health?

You should observe signs to know that it’s time to seek help for your mental health. It may be as simple as a change in mood or unsatisfactory work performance. 

These are the signs that indicate that a man needs to seek treatment options for their mental health:

• Weight changes
• Loss of interest in things previously enjoyed
• Poor work performance
• Physical symptoms like stomach ache and headache
• Symptoms of depression: feelings of sadness or hopelessness
• Alcohol or substance abuse
• Changes in sleeping and eating patterns
• Social withdrawal
• Anxiety

Observe at least one of these symptoms and try to engage your loved one in an open conversation. Please consult with a healthcare provider before it’s too late. 

Related: Can Online Counseling Help My Anxiety?

Advice for Men for a Better Mental Health

If you detect mental illness signs, you can take mental health screening tests online to find clarity to what you’re going through. Mental illnesses are like any other health conditions, it needs treatment, and there’s nothing to be ashamed about. Here is some friendly advice you can do:

• Open Communication: Share your problems or what you feel with family, friends, or support groups. No man is an island, and your family and friends can help you find a solution to your problem. 
• Health and Wellness: To combat mental illness, regular exercise and healthy eating are necessary. According to a Harvard study, exercise is the all-natural mental health treatment for depression. 
• Seek Counseling: Therapies with mental health professionals are the best option to deal with mental illness and suicide prevention. You can tell your therapist about anything you feel, what you’re going through, or any symptom you’re having. 

Related: What To Know About Mental Health Screening

Men are more likely to seek mental health treatment if it is accessible and convenient. Here at Kentucky Counseling Center, you can avail online screening and telehealth sessions. Isn’t it convenient to have to counsel just a chat or call away?