In recent years, mental health awareness has grown significantly, emphasizing the importance of emotional well-being for all genders. Yet, men remain less likely to seek mental health treatment compared to women, and alarmingly, men’s suicide rates are 3.6 times higher than those of women, according to Statista.
“Men face unique mental health challenges that often prevent them from seeking professional help, leading to untreated conditions that worsen over time,” explains Paola Vidauri, a Clinical Therapist at Loma Linda University Behavioral Medical Center. She highlights that women can play a pivotal role in supporting the men they care about, breaking the stigma, and creating an environment where vulnerability is accepted.
Understanding the “Unspoken Rule”
From a young age, boys are taught to suppress their emotions, often hearing phrases like “man up” or “don’t cry.” These early lessons contribute to what Vidauri calls the “unspoken rule,” which promotes stereotypes such as:
- Men shouldn’t express their emotions or they appear weak.
- A man’s value is tied to financial success as a provider.
- Men must be independent and avoid burdening others with their problems.
As these boys grow into men, these messages condition them to avoid discussing emotions, leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms. This reluctance to open up often stems from internalized ideas that emotional expression is reserved for women, Vidauri notes.
How Women Can Support Men’s Mental Health?
Supporting a male loved one on their mental health journey can be challenging, but Vidauri encourages women to remain patient and persistent. “Don’t give up,” she advises. “Men have to unlearn years of being told that showing emotions is not okay, so it takes time.”
Here are some strategies women can use to help men navigate their mental health:
1. Normalize Conversations About Mental Health
Talking openly about mental health can help reduce the stigma around it. Sharing your own experiences or initiating discussions about emotional well-being may encourage men to feel more comfortable talking about their struggles.
2. Be a Listener, Not Just a Talker
While women often find it easier to express their emotions, men may need more time to open up. Vidauri suggests giving them space to speak and actively listening when they do. Acknowledging their feelings and viewpoints is essential to fostering open communication.
3. Invite Them to Join You in Therapy
If a man is hesitant about therapy, inviting him to attend one of your sessions may help ease his concerns. Vidauri says, “Men may resist being told to go to therapy, but seeing the process firsthand can shift their perspective.” By witnessing the benefits, men might become more open to seeking therapy for themselves.
4. Set Healthy Boundaries
Supporting someone struggling with their mental health can be emotionally taxing. It’s vital to set personal boundaries to avoid burnout. Women must recognize their limits and prioritize self-care while being a source of support.
What If They Don’t Want Help?
It’s difficult to watch a loved one refuse help, but pressuring them can make things worse. “Love them, but don’t work harder than they do,” Vidauri advises. Over-pushing can cause men to shut down even further. Instead, she suggests the “three-day rule” – checking in every three days to show your support without overwhelming them.
Mental Health Tips for Men
Vidauri offers these practical tips for men looking to improve their mental well-being:
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is a proven way to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Increase Vitamin D: Exposure to sunlight or spending time near a window can help regulate mood and combat depression.
- Avoid Isolation: Maintaining face-to-face connections with friends and family fosters stronger emotional support.
- Build a Support System: If close friends or family aren’t available, consider joining support groups for issues like depression or addiction.
- Focus on Nutrition: A healthy, balanced diet supports both physical and mental health.
- Get Regular Health Checkups: Sometimes, mental health struggles stem from hormonal imbalances or vitamin deficiencies, which a doctor can identify.
- Practice Self-Care: Taking breaks to rest and reflect can help men manage stress and focus on positive aspects of life.
Final Thoughts
Helping the men in your life navigate mental health challenges is a journey, and it requires patience, understanding, and persistence. By creating a safe space for open dialogue and offering support without pushing too hard, women can make a significant difference in breaking down the barriers men face in seeking mental health care.
Source: https://news.llu.edu/health-wellness/supporting-mens-mental-health-guide-for-women
