Men’s Health Week 13th – 20th June 2022
As it’s men’s health week, we thought it essential to discuss men and their mental health.
Firstly, some STATS.
1 in 4 people experience mental health issues each year
At any given time, 1 in 6 working-age adults have symptoms associated with mental ill-health. 1 in 5 are women, and 1-8 are men.
Mental illness is the second-largest source of burden of disease in England. Mental illnesses are more common, long-lasting, and impactful than other health conditions.
Men aged 40-49 have the highest suicide rates in the UK.
Three times as many men as women die by suicide
Men report lower levels of life satisfaction than women
Men are less likely to access psychological therapies than women: only 36% of referrals to NHS talking therapies are for men.
What do we think about the STATS?
It seems strange that fewer men are diagnosed with mental ill-health than women but a higher rate of suicide. So WHY?
Though a lot has changed regarding the stigma of mental ill-health, there is still a lot to do. This is worse from a male perspective - “it’s not a mental illness that kills, it’s the stigma associated with it.”
Still, stigma and discrimination have a negative effect on people with mental illness, and often people who spoke out found it made the situation worse rather than better. Not only did they experience stigma and discrimination from society but also friends, family, and employers.
To make matters worse, men are wired to believe they cannot show emotion ‘boys don’t cry’ or ‘Man up.’ Through upbringing and culture, they still think they should not speak out and just get on with it as a sign of weakness, and men are STRONG!
However, the truth is that men who speak up and seek help are strong. They are taking responsibility for their own health and wellbeing and seeking the support and treatment they need.
Another reason is that most mental health campaigns do not speak to men; men tend to respond to humour and softer mental health language. Once they are engaged, they are eager to find out more.
Plus, men feel they have enough to deal with, so their own mental health is not high on their agenda, with no time in their schedule to accommodate time for getting help.
What can we do to change the narrative?
It’s time to talk, boys!
A strong man will speak out and ask for help.
It’s just as essential to be mentally healthy as well as physically healthy
The most valuable time you spend in the day is on your wellbeing
Top TIPS for men
Reach out – do not hide away; chat to a friend
Get it off your chest – Tell someone how you are feeling; make sure this is someone who will listen and not try to FIX it.
Follow social media that you relate to.
Have routine and structure to your day
Start a hobby or even volunteer
Get outside in the fresh air
Create a motivational playlist
Get out of your comfort zone – try something new and challenging
Stop and pause – Dedicate time every day to your wellbeing
Breath – spend 5 minutes focused on your breathing, slow it down and forget the world.