Men’s mental health is being spoken about a lot more now than it has ever been. Global statistics show men are reluctant to talk about their mental health and are more likely to die by suicide than women*. Here’s why this is happening, and how the world is trying to improve the silent crisis.
An abundance of statistics suggests men avoid getting help for their mental health because of the stigma and misconception surrounding the disparities. Historically, men’s mental health crisis has been overlooked by society with awareness spreading only in recent years. According to Priory Group, 40% of men in the UK do not discuss their mental health with close friends, family, or medical professionals, and at least 77% of men have suffered from common mental health symptoms at some point in their lives.
Addressing mental health should not be a preventative measure or treated in isolation, instead, it should be part of all well-being discourses. The recent emergence of men’s health campaigns highlights the causes of poor mental health in men, real-life situations which trigger real emotions. This could be due to a change in financial, emotional, and physical circumstances often undetected by loved ones.
Having conversations about the root causes of deeper psychological issues can provide support to those currently struggling with many of those common symptoms of poor mental health, as well as encouraging those who have previously suffered in silence to seek the appropriate care.
There is no single root cause for deterioration in mental health. However, following these four steps can help find a self-help resolution or guidance to someone caring for an individual experiencing mental health difficulties.
- Education – Educate yourself on mental health and keep an open mind
- Listen – Being given the space to talk and express emotions can be the first step for someone who has suppressed their feelings in the past
- Patience – Be considerate, it needs to work to the timescale of the sufferer, not the carer. If someone is finding it difficult to talk about their feelings, be patient and remain present until they are ready
- Reassurance – Stepping out of your comfort zone and sharing your mental health worries openly can be a scary thing to do – offer reassurance and support on someone’s journey when you can.
Retirement, sudden ill health or the realization age is creeping up causing physical changes which affect mobility, can create a mental health crisis. Because men do not typically have the same friend support network as women, and don’t like to admit these things are worrying them, this can be exacerbated by internalizing the worries.
This is where a discreet accessibility product such as the compact, attractive home lift from Stiltz can prove beneficial. This product enables the individual to continue living an independent lifestyle while remaining in their family home. This kind of stability can help improve mental health and restore confidence.
Stiltz Homelifts supports Men’s Mental Health and encourages all who are feeling troubled or overwhelmed to seek professional support. If you or someone you know needs support, visit https://www.mind.org.uk/
*Statistics from https://www.priorygroup.com/blog/40-of-men-wont-talk-to-anyone-about-their-mental-health