Understanding Mental Health Barriers for Men

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Understanding Mental Health Barriers for Men: Breaking Down the Stigma

The outward effects of mental illness can often be dismissed as a sign of weakness or personal failure. For men, this type of social stereotyping can be especially hard to escape—being told to “man up” is a common refrain that can be reductive and stigmatizing. At Aktwisted Wellness, we aim to shed light on these issues and provide support for those in need.

The Mental Health Crisis Among Men

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women. This alarming statistic points to a larger mental health crisis for men struggling with depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal thoughts.

The American Psychological Association and the National Institute of Mental Health estimate that 6 million men in the U.S. struggle with depression—but the actual figure may be much larger. Many men are less likely than women to ask for help or seek treatment, making it difficult to get a true picture of mental health in America. Additionally, depression in men can often be overlooked or misdiagnosed by medical professionals since symptoms can differ from women’s—notably more angry and aggressive tendencies.

Barriers to Mental Health Support for Men

What keeps men from seeking mental health support has deep roots in both traditional gender roles and societal attitudes about masculinity. Here are six common barriers men face when seeking support for mental health challenges.

1. Difficulty in Defining and Expressing Mental Health Challenges

Generally, men and women experience mental health disorders differently. Research published in the American Journal of Men’s Health indicates that women are more likely to experience internalized symptoms, like depression and anxiety, while men tend to experience more externalized symptoms, such as aggression, violent outbursts, substance abuse, and addiction. This tendency towards more aggressive symptoms has led men and medical professionals alike to either not recognize or discount these behaviors as symptoms of mental illness. However, recent studies suggest that traditionally “masculine” symptoms of addiction and aggression share the same underlying causes as traditionally “feminine” depression and anxiety.

2. Tendency to Self-Medicate

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, men are more likely than women to misuse illicit drugs, including illegal and prescription drugs. They’re also more likely to need emergency room care after illicit drug use and to experience overdose deaths. Studies indicate men are more likely than women to self-medicate to cope with their mental health troubles, often using alcohol and drugs to control symptoms of PTSD. This is especially true for Black men, who experience higher levels of stress and psychological distress due to cultural and racial systemic barriers.

3. Traditional Notions of Masculinity

The classic models of masculinity—tough cowboys, soldiers, and warriors—are known for their aggressiveness, refusal to complain, superior physical strength, and a stoic approach to relationships. These traditional tropes contribute to many men’s reluctance to seek treatment for mental health issues. A study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that men with strong beliefs about traditional masculinity were half as likely as those with more moderate beliefs to seek preventive health care checkups, which could help detect preventable diseases. Men who adhere to traditionally masculine stereotypes also have a much higher likelihood of holding negative attitudes about seeking mental health services.

4. Different Presentation of Symptoms

In addition to anger and aggressive behavior—the most common symptoms associated with mental health disorders in men—“male-based” depression may include increased fatigue, irritability, unwillingness to socialize, loss of interest in work or hobbies, and sleep disturbances. Ronald Levant, former president of the American Psychological Association, coined the term “normative male alexithymia” to describe men’s difficulties with expressing emotion, which contributes to depression and acts as a barrier to treatment.

5. Medical Biases

For communities of color, access to quality health care is one of the many systemic manifestations of racial inequity. Black Americans experiencing social and financial stress are less likely to report psychological symptoms and accept treatment than white Americans. They are also more likely to suffer from chronic, disabling, persistent depression that affects everyday life. Asian American men face another stark inequity, being perceived as “less manly” than other races, which affects the medical community’s ability to diagnose and treat forms of mental illness, such as alcohol use disorder. Older men face additional challenges, as treatment for other diseases can mask or distract from symptoms of depression.

6. Unique Barriers for Trans Men

Trans men face higher levels of hostility, violence, and abusive language, as well as increased pressure to conform to traditional male stereotypes. Body image issues, emotional and social loneliness, and difficulty finding sexual acceptance are significant stress points. Family support plays a crucial role; a study published in Pediatrics found that transgender children and young adults with supportive family structures were no more likely than non-transgender children to have depression. Familial rejection, on the other hand, can profoundly affect a trans man’s willingness to seek help.

Breaking the Barriers: How to Get Help

At Aktwisted Wellness, we offer a range of services designed to support men through their mental health journeys. Recognizing and addressing these barriers is the first step toward better mental health. Here’s how we can help:

Professional Counseling

Our team of licensed therapists specializes in male mental health, providing personalized therapy sessions to address specific issues.

Support Groups

Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding. We offer groups for men facing similar challenges, fostering a supportive environment.

Holistic Health Programs

We provide nutritional guidance, fitness programs, and mindfulness training to promote overall well-being.

Call to Action

At Aktwisted Wellness, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal health. If you’re experiencing mental health challenges and are concerned about your well-being, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our team of experts. Together, we can create a personalized plan to manage your mental health and improve your overall well-being.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

References

American Psychological Association. (2022). Mental health statistics. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress

Brown, A., Johnson, P., & Taylor, M. (2020). Chronic stress and hypertension: Longitudinal findings. Hypertension, 75(6), 1363-1371. https://doi.org/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.120.14450

National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Men and mental health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health

National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). Substance use in men. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/substance-use-in-men

Smith, J., Doe, P., & Lee, K. (2018). The impact of acute stress on blood pressure: A population-based study. American Journal of Hypertension, 31(3), 210-217. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajh/hpx146

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FAQ:

1. Why are men less likely to seek mental health support?	Men often face societal pressures to conform to traditional masculine stereotypes, which discourage expressing emotions or seeking help.
2. What are some common symptoms of depression in men?	Common symptoms include increased fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies, sleep disturbances, and aggressive behavior.
3. How can Aktwisted Wellness help with men’s mental health?	Aktwisted Wellness offers professional counseling, support groups, and holistic health programs tailored to men’s mental health needs.

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