November 20, 2023

Men’s Mental Health Month

This post was written by: Michael Sayers

Men’s Mental Health Month is November, and it’s important to raise awareness of this often-silent issue that affects a great number of people. Beneath the exterior of fortitude and resiliency, men often confront a complex array of mental health difficulties. This month offers a chance to dispel myths, promote candid dialogue, and offer assistance with mental health.

There is a very strong stigma surrounding men’s mental health. Historically, men have been expected to express their emotions within a rigid framework set by society norms. The stigma associated with mental health issues frequently deters men from getting treatment. We explore the effects of these preconceptions and how crucial it is to destroy them in order to foster an accepting culture.

Men frequently have different mental health issues, such as the pressure from society to uphold traditional masculinity and the often-ignored difficulties with body image, self-esteem, and emotional expression.  An essential component of mental health advocacy is communication. We talk about the need of having candid conversations in both social and private spheres. Men’s experiences, anxieties, and victories can be shared, which helps build a feeling of community and lessen the stigma attached to mental health issues.

Strong support networks and wholesome connections are essential for mental wellness. In addition, the benefits of exercise, diet, and mindfulness techniques on men’s mental health should be considered the relationship between physical and mental well-being. Men might be empowered to take proactive measures towards leading balanced and healthy lives by emphasising and normalising holistic approaches.

In a study of 1000 men by Priory Private Healthcare, 40% of men polled said it would take thoughts of suicide or self-harm to compel them to seek professional help. 40% have never spoken to anyone about their mental health due to being too embarrassed or by the negative stigma on the issue as 77% have suffered with symptoms of negative mental health. At the most concerning end, nearly 70-80% of people who die by suicide are men and 1 in 3 men in the UK have experienced suicidal thoughts.

Aston Bond believes that Men’s Mental Health Month is an important chance to raise awareness of a topic that needs greater consideration and education. By breaking down preconceived notions, encouraging candid dialogue, and offering assistance, we can help create a culture in which men are confident enough to put their mental health first. Let’s end the stigma and open the door to a more accepting and caring approach to mental health. Together, let’s break the silence and pave the way for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to men’s mental health.