By Dr. Girish K. Maindarkar
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
In Modern times, mental health has become important and individuals have been encouraged to talk about it and should express their emotions freely. But when it comes to mental health issues in men particularly depression and anxiety remains challenging due to societal expectations of masculinity. Our goal is to promote understanding and find solutions by tackling the obstacles men encounter in accessing mental health support. A recent report shows that 77% of men experience mental health issues, yet 40% avoid discussing about it due to societal pressures. Additionally, 29% feel embarrassed to talk about depression and anxiety.
Understanding depression and anxiety in men
Depression and anxiety are mental health conditions that can affect anyone, but men sometimes find it difficult to talk about these feelings openly because of societal expectations about masculinity. Men often struggle with mental health due to family, financial, and work pressures. It’s crucial to create an open environment where men feel comfortable discussing their emotions and mental well-being.
Societal expectations
Men are often expected to hide their feelings of sadness or fear and appear emotionally strong. They feel pressured to handle their problems alone because of societal expectations. This makes it hard for them to admit they need help, fearing they might seem weak or less masculine when talking about their mental health. These pressures limit how men express their emotions, making it difficult for them to discuss their mental health and seek support.
Breaking the stigma
The goal is to make seeking help easy and judgment-free. This means teaching about mental health, ensuring understanding, and encouraging open talks. We want a culture where everyone feels accepted and supported in getting the help they need for their mental well-being.
Strategies for coping
For managing depression and anxiety professional help is necessary, some of the strategies men can include in their daily routine to improve their mental well-being.
Physical Health: Men should exercise regularly, eat balanced meals, and get enough sleep. Exercise boosts mood by releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain.
Emotional Well-being: It’s important for men to acknowledge and validate their feelings. Relaxing activities like hobbies, meditation, or spending time outdoors can help reduce stress.
Social Connections: Maintaining good relationships with friends, family, and community helps men feel supported and less lonely. Regular socializing can improve mental well-being.
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help men manage stress and think more clearly.
Setting Boundaries: Learning to say no when necessary and prioritizing personal needs without feeling guilty is crucial for maintaining balance and avoiding exhaustion.
Seeking Support: Men should not hesitate to seek professional help or talk to trusted people when facing challenges or struggling with their mental health.
Conclusion
In summary, supporting men with depression and anxiety requires breaking down societal barriers and stigma around mental health. It’s important to promote awareness and provide adequate support. Creating safe environments where men feel comfortable discussing their emotions and seeking help is crucial. Encouraging openness about mental health ensures that everyone receives the necessary support for emotional well-being. Simple methods such as relaxation techniques can also aid in reducing anxiety. By educating, advocating, and offering support, we aim to build a society that values and prioritizes mental health for everyone.
The author Dr. Girish K. Maindarkar is President College Of Physicians & Surgeons of Mumbai (CPS), MNAMS, DNB(Paed), FCPS(Child Health), DCH
–Press release
