It’s no secret that men are not always the best at taking care of their mental health. In fact, according to the National Library of Medicine, “men are more likely than women to die by suicide.” But why is this? Why are men more likely to suffer from mental disorders and why are they less likely to seek help?
There are several theories, but one popular explanation is that men often grow up believing they should be tough and stoic. They’re taught that showing emotions is a sign of weakness. As a result, men often bottle up their feelings instead of dealing with them in a healthy way. This can lead to many mental and emotional problems down the road.
I get it. For years, I knew my mental health was in jeopardy, but I refused to talk about it. I didn’t want to appear weak or make others think I had lost my faith. My pride and wrong beliefs nearly cost me my life.
I got help before it was too late, but several of my friends did not. The pain I feel from losing each of them is why I write every day about how to cope with mental illness.
Untreated mental illness in men is costing lives. Males make up 79% of the suicides in the United States each year and have a nearly three times higher risk than women to die from alcohol-related causes. Clearly, it’s time for men to make their mental health a priority.
Fortunately, there is help available for those who need it. And while we still have a long way to go to destigmatize mental health issues, progress is being made. So if you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone and there is hope.
5 Common Mental Disorders Men Experience
Men may experience dozens of mental disorders, but today we’re going to focus on five of the most common ones.
1. Anxiety disorders
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, “anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18% of the population.” Symptoms of anxiety disorders include excessive worry, racing thoughts, insomnia, and panic attacks.
2. Depression
Depression is one of the most prevalent mental disorders affecting both men and women. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression “causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.”
When you face persistent sadness for a long time, it can disrupt your entire life and lead to thoughts of death or suicide. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s vital to seek support from a mental health professional.
3. Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes drastic mood changes. People who have bipolar disorder experience spells of depression (low mood) that are followed by periods of mania (high mood).
Symptoms of mania include feeling overly happy or euphoric, having lots of energy, being easily distracted, talking faster than usual, and engaging in risky behavior. If you think you might be experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, it’s essential to seek professional help.
4. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, is an anxiety disorder where someone has persistent and unwelcome thoughts (obsessions), and they feel the urge to repeat certain behaviors (compulsions) over and over. People with OCD often feel like they have to perform certain rituals or routines in order to ward off bad luck or disaster.
For example, someone with OCD might repeatedly check to make sure they locked the door because they’re afraid of an intruder walking in. If you think you might have OCD, it’s imperative to seek help from a trained professional as there are effective treatments available.
5. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event, such as combat, sexual assault, or a natural disaster. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, irritability, trouble sleeping, and avoidance behaviors, such as staying away from places or people that remind you of the trauma you experienced. If you think you might have PTSD, please seek help as there are effective treatments available.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health issue, there is guidance available. Here are some resources to get you started:
Talk to your partner, family, or friends
The first step is to admit you are struggling. Tell those who love you about what you’re going through. Be open and willing to accept the help they offer.
See your doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor. Your primary care physician can help you assess whether you have a mental disorder and refer you to a mental health professional if necessary.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Call or text 988 to talk to trained counselors.
If you are in the United States and experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Take Action Today
These are just five of the mental disorders that can affect men. However, many more conditions exist, including schizophrenia, eating disorders, and substance use disorder. If you feel you might be suffering from any type of mental illness, please seek professional help immediately. Prompt action can save your life, as it did mine. Life can get better.
Mental health issues are nothing to be ashamed of and shouldn’t make you feel weak. Everyone gets a physical sickness now and then, and when you do, you take steps to get better.
When I finally sought the help I needed, I learned I have bipolar disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. My diagnoses gave me a name to label what was happening inside and an enemy to fight. Now, I live a full and happy life.
You should treat your mental health the same way. Stop suffering in silence. Starting a medication or treatment plan is the best way to get back to the person you want to be. Take action and improve your mental health today.
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