Mental Health, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in order to achieve holistic well-being, one must address all aspects of one’s life, including emotional, social, and psychological health. It is critical to take care of one’s mental health at all stages, from childhood to old life.
Because mental and physical health are important components of overall well-being, everyone must take care of both. Unfortunately, many stigmas exist around men’s mental health, in addition to the societal weight of mental health care. For example, “Mard ko Dard Nahi Hota,”
“Men should toughen up,” and “Men don’t cry” are common phrases used to make it difficult for men to discuss their mental health. Standing up to these assumptions and false beliefs about men’s mental health becomes critical to ensuring that no one suffers in silence. Dr. Jini K. Gopinath, Chief Psychology Officer at your dose, shares some common misconceptions debunked by research-driven
Men have a tendency to react negatively to difficult situations
When men face challenges in life, it is widely assumed that they will resort to harmful coping mechanisms such as outbursts of rage or the use of alcohol, drugs, and other substances. This is far from the case. According to research, some of the common coping strategies used by men include:
Men Do Not Seek Assistance
This assumption is based on an even more ingrained myth: men do not “need” therapy. Statistics, however, show otherwise. According to records, nearly 70% of calls to the Centre’s mental health rehabilitation helpline came from men and boys across the country. This suggests that males, like everyone else, require professional assistance from time to time and are willing to seek it.
Women are more vulnerable to mental health problems.
With the general idea that women are more vocal about their mental health comes the myth that men do not have mental health difficulties. Statistics, on the other hand, reveal a different narrative. According to the National Mental Health Survey 2015-16, the total prevalence of mental morbidity was 13.9 percent among men and 7.5 percent among women.
Conclusion
Global research has emphasised the necessity of raising mental health awareness in order to normalise getting help. Starting a conversation about mental health, keeping it going, and confronting deeply ingrained stereotypes are the best ways to ensure that men’s mental health is given the attention it deserves.