Suicide continues to be a pressing public health concern, with millions of lives lost each year. By raising awareness, we can help remove the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage individuals to seek help. Understanding factors that contribute to suicidal thoughts and behavior such as mental illness, trauma, and social isolation is important for effective prevention. World Suicide Prevention Day is observed on September 10 every year, a day dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention and the importance of mental health. This event serves as a reminder that suicide is a global problem that affects individuals from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender or social background. The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2024 to 2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with a call to action: “Start the conversation. The challenging ‘Tough Guy’ image Surveys from around the world show that men everywhere are reluctant to talk about their mental health and are more likely than women to die by suicide may come from being male Gender reluctance to seek mental health treatment and internalized expectations around “masculine behavior” indicate vulnerability or perceived weakness can create obstacles for men to acknowledge and accept their mental health problems. Therefore, the need to conform to unrealistic expectations can lead to internalized and created shame create obstacles in seeking help every day, men find themselves having to grapple with outdated, prescriptive ideas about gender and as a result, their struggles contribute to mental health suffering. Men face unique challenges, including career-related stress, relationship pressures, and sometimes unrealistic expectations about success and emotional expression. This explains why so many men have difficulty admitting that they need mental health support. Men with depression may display higher levels of anger, aggression, and irritability or express their distress in “culturally acceptable” ways. Men are more likely to see a doctor about physical symptoms than emotional symptoms. Men with depression may self-medicate with alcohol and other stimulants. However, this can worsen their problems and increase their risk of developing other health conditions. A leading scientific journal in 2022 published a review of studies addressing the social stigma surrounding mental illness. Research reveals that men who internalize this stigma are less likely to seek help for psychological problems and more likely to experience challenges, increasing their risk of serious mental illness. . Discourage open discussion and seeking psychological help. Fear of being judged by others, societal misconceptions, and threats to their masculinity often keep deserving individuals from openly discussing their mental health. Challenge encourages men to seek psychological support The ‘Call to Action’ aims to encourage people to start the conversation about suicide and suicide prevention into action. Every conversation, no matter how brief, plays a role in promoting a supportive and understanding society. By starting these essential discussions, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and build stronger support systems. Help-seeking behavior is essential to eliminating negative stereotypes in men. This can be achieved by educational initiatives, workplaces and community outreach programs. Our ultimate goal is to raise awareness and encourage men to seek psychological help when required. Mental health concerns can be addressed with counseling sessions, supportive psychotherapy and various support groups, providing a safe space for men.
Here’s what stress does to your health
In short, the entire issue of men’s mental health is at an alarming rate according to available statistics. It shows their silent struggle, requiring care and understanding. By acknowledging the commonality of mental health challenges, removing stigma and encouraging open discussion, we can certainly pave the way for a society that supports men in prioritizing their mental health. their reason. Being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards happiness. Insightful understanding, an environment of empathy and targeted interventions can create a culture where ‘tough guys’ feel empowered to tackle their mental health without judgment or shame. (Author: Dr. (Professor) Neatu Narang, Senior Consultant, Psychiatry, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad, Haryana)
