Time and again, studies have shown that women are more apt to be anxious or depressed than men due to hormonal changes, biology, or coping strategies. Still, what about the theory that men struggle with mental health issues but are less apt to talk about them due to societal expectations of masculinity? Sadly, men continue to suffer needlessly in silence for those reasons, increasing their risk of suicide. Therefore, this is why discussing men’s mental health is important.

Here’s the reality.

1. Depression can’t be willed away.

As much as we wish we could will away depression, it doesn’t work that way.

Suppose you begin to experience initial signs of diabetes – feeling more thirsty, urinating often, or your vision blurs, and you don’t treat the condition. What happens? After a while, untreated symptoms can lead to more severe issues like heart disease or stroke.

The same is true about depression. Not treating early signs can eventually lead to substance and alcohol issues, impact daily functioning, and death by suicide.

2. We can’t sweep depression under the rug.

Sadly, many individuals who’ve died by suicide might have appeared happy prior. Still, as Robin Williams once said, “All it takes is a beautiful fake smile to hide an injured soul.” So, chances are that person suppressed their depression for quite some time.

A person can only bottle their emotions for so long. Still, many individuals won’t disclose their situation for various reasons until it reaches a tragic end.

3. Mental illness exists everywhere.

How many of us as individuals, our family members, or other people we know live with mental health conditions? And over the years, it has only continued to rise.

The prevalence of mental illness in Australia is staggering. Still, it can happen to anyone anywhere, meaning there is no discrimination. So, we need to stop pretending that mental illness doesn’t exist.  

4. We all need someone.

Humans are social beings who need people in their lives. Although, it’s healthy to have some solitude, too. However, individuals who are depressed often isolate themselves more. Therefore, maintaining contact with others, especially during a difficult time, is essential.

If you don’t feel comfortable talking with certain people, choose those you would and can trust.

Otherwise, there are support groups to consider. Talking with others who can relate to your issues and empathise can make all the difference. One such place is Barty’s Adventures, where they hold special events and adventures to help men feel better about themselves by keeping active, thus improving mental health. Barty – We Are A Mental Health Initiative

5. Talking about mental health can save lives.

Men are unnecessarily suffering, and we must do more as a society to help. They need to know that struggling doesn’t make them weak, they have nothing to feel ashamed of, and they don’t need to suffer in silence.

Remember, the more we spread the word and destigmatise mental health, the more lives we save.

Why Not Try Online Therapy?

Hopefully, these points could give some comfort, but sometimes just reading quotes isn’t enough. Online therapy can be a great option if you or a loved one is looking for more support.

Therapy through BetterHelp.com/Barty can be more affordable than traditional therapy and allows many options to communicate with your therapist from the comfort of your home. Most importantly, remember that it is okay not to be okay, and you are no less of a human for feeling your emotions and being vulnerable.

To receive 25% off your first month, head to BetterHelp.com/Barty

Feel free to drop by if you’d like to chat and just say, ‘Hey Barty,‘ in strict confidence, and you can be anonymous if you wish. Or do not hesitate to leave a question in the comments section below at any time.