RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – Men’s mental health is a key issue that oftentimes gets overlooked not only here in the US but around the world and looking at data from just the United States, men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women. Not only that but the Anxiety & Depression Association of America also reports that 1 in 10 men experience depression or anxiety. The alarming part of that statistic is even fewer men receive treatment or ask for help in a time of need.
Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can affect both men and women equally, but culture, race, and a social stigma for men to “tough it out” are big factors as to why speaking about men’s feelings or experiences is seen as taboo for many people. As a way to combat this and make it more common for men to seek out help if they need it, recognizing warning signs is crucial in aiding in early intervention and treatment of mental health problems; in doing so, you are helping save lives.
According to West River Mental Health, there are some warning signs and symptoms that are unique to men going through a mental health crisis.
- Substance abuse—this would include alcohol or other drugs
- Taking too many risks
- Noticing a shift in concentration
- Physical changes such as loosing weight at an abnormal level
- Constant headaches, digestive issues, even chronic pain can be a sign
Working to destigmatize men’s mental health is what many people are working toward and you can take the first steps by recognizing some of the signs and symptoms of someone in need, along with providing a supportive environment where mental health is talked about and not simply suppressed.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health for any reason, call the suicide hotline at 988, and they will connect you with someone who can help.
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