Silent crisis causing 1 in 8 men to suffer from depression and anxiety

Hyderabad: Mental health has long been overlooked when it comes to men, even though it impacts their well-being, relationships and overall quality of life.

The WHO highlighted that one in eight men will experience depression or anxiety in their lifetime, while many suffer in silence due to stigma and societal expectations. Here’s an in-depth look at men’s mental health, its challenges and possible solutions.

Understanding men’s mental health

Mental health is a state of emotional, psychological and social well-being that affects how individuals think, feel and interact with others. It is a crucial aspect of overall health. However, men are disproportionately affected by mental health problems:

• Men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide than women.

• Depression is one of the leading causes of disability in men aged 15 to 44, according to mental health specialists.

Dr. Anjali Mohapatra, a psychiatrist from Hyderabad, explained: “Mental health problems in men often go unnoticed because many men feel pressured to appear strong and invulnerable. This leads to delays in seeking help, which worsens their condition.”

The struggles men face

Cultural norms often label men as protectors, providers, and decision makers, putting them under enormous pressure. These pressures, combined with societal expectations, contribute to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and depression.

Many men avoid counseling because they fear being seen as weak. Dr. Mohapatra explains: “Men have internalized the belief that showing vulnerability is a sign of incompetence. This perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health care.”

Research also shows that men’s unwillingness to discuss their emotions and seek professional help exacerbates the cycle of neglect in addressing their mental health.

The connection between physical and mental health

Mental and physical health are closely linked.

Experts say people with physical illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease are three times as likely to seek mental health care than those without physical problems. Conversely, mental health problems can increase the risk of developing physical illnesses.

Key findings from the World Health Organization (WHO):

• Patients with type II diabetes are twice as likely to develop depression.

• Depression more than doubles the risk of heart attacks.

• Up to 50% of cancer patients suffer from anxiety or depression.

“Mental and physical health are intertwined,” says Dr. Amit Mehta, a mental health expert. “Tackling mental health in men can significantly improve their physical well-being and vice versa.”

Barriers to seeking help

Men face several barriers to accessing mental health care, including:

• Financial limitations.

• Lack of awareness about available resources.

• Fear of being judged or stigmatized.

Dr. Mehta emphasized: “Breaking these barriers requires collective efforts, including awareness campaigns, affordable services and creating safe spaces for men to openly talk about their struggles.”

Promoting men’s psychological well-being

1. Awareness campaigns: Raising awareness about men’s mental health can help men recognize when they need help. Educational initiatives can inform men about the consequences of mental health problems and the resources available.

2. Open communication: Encouraging men to express their emotions and share their experiences is crucial. “We need to normalize conversations about mental health,” says Dr. Sharma.

3. Improving access to services: Ensuring accessible mental health care, such as therapy and counseling, can make a significant difference. Governments and organizations must tackle barriers such as costs and stigmatization.

4. Encourage support activities: By participating in activities such as sports, community service or social clubs, men can build connections and improve their mental health.

5. Promote self-care: Self-care practices such as regular exercise, balanced diet, and mindfulness can improve both physical and mental health. According to a recent study in England, people who exercise three times a week reduce their risk of depression by 19 percent.