Mental health is a state of emotional and social wellbeing. It influences how an individual copes with the normal stresses of life and whether they can achieve their potential. (Australian Health Ministers, 2003).

 

A mental illness is a clinically diagnosable disorder that significantly interferes with an individual's cognitive, emotional or social abilities (Australian Health Ministers, 2003).

Poor mental health is increasing in our population more so among men than women. Some feel that there is a quiet crisis happening in men’s health (Ricciardelli in the Australian Psychological Society).

Here are some interesting facts:

  • Mental health problems are becoming increasingly recognised in men of all ages, with the majority diagnosed among adolescents and young adults.

  • On average, 1 in 8 men will have depression and 1 in 5 men will experience anxiety at some stage of their lives (ABS 2008)

  • Men are less likely to get the help they need, with ABS data showing only 27 per cent of men seek professional help, compared to 40 per cent of women. In many cases men turn to drugs or alcohol instead of getting assistance, this is especially so with men under 25 (ABC Health and Wellbeing)

 

So why is this happening?

How well do we understand the causes of poor mental health in men and why men often do not seek the support and treatment they need?

There are a few factors are at play. Men may be disinclined to acknowledge they have a problem as it may render them less masculine. Upbringing can play a large part. Boys are frequently told to be strong and tough, not to cry, not to be ‘sissies’. These messages can lead to a denial of emotions. Consequently, men may have built up an armour which is the antithesis of seeking help. They may equate their mental state as a weakness, preferring to ‘tough it out’. Asking for help, especially for such a problem, does not come naturally.

Stigma is another, interrelated factor. Sadly, mental health can still be stigmatised despite the strides that have been and are continuing to be made to bring attention to this common issue. Men may be afraid they will lose respect and experience discrimination, which may impact negatively on their jobs and careers, or on other positions they esteem, in their families and in the community.

Relationship and family breakdowns, substance use and alcohol abuse, financial stress, and traumatic life events are also other stressors which may impact on a person’s mental health.

 

Personal acceptance of mental health

Accepting that one has a mental health problem is a first step and can eventually lead to good health outcomes. Many men have taken this step by participating in men’s health groups and seeking professional treatment.

Prominent Australian men have disclosed their mental health situation and openly discussed the need to seek help. Some have become fierce advocates for mental health.

Jeff Kennett, ex-Premier of Victoria, founded the Beyondblue to raise awareness of depression.

Trade and Investment Minister, Andrew Robb, MP (retired) has openly talked about his depression and is now an advocate for mental health. Read his honest interview about his depression on the ABC.

Ian Thorpe revealed he struggled with depression since a teenager and now, urges others to get help with mental health. Read Ian’s interview on the ABC.

Inspiration and admiration can also come from ordinary members of the community who through courage and determination have sought help to improve their lives and succeeded.

 

Acceptance of mental health by others

Taboos surrounding discussion and treatment of mental health are gradually disappearing. There are now many organisations and people within and outside government that talk openly about health and mental health, its impact on individuals, families and the community.

Many days are now set aside to acknowledge mental health and support people and families. RU OK is a day dedicated to asking people if they are ok. Their mission is to ‘inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with people around them and support anyone struggling with life’.

Movember is a fun way in which the whole community can participate, where men grow a moustache for charity in a bid to raise awareness about men's health.

In New South Wales the month of October is mental health month.

Many organisations have workplace strategies to support employees who may have a mental illness.

There is evidence that the media is portraying mental health more sensitively. There are organisations like Mindframe whose National Media Initiative encourages responsible, accurate and sensitive media representation of mental illness and suicide.

 

Getting help

There is now a growing number of organisations that offer mental health support in a myriad of ways. Some of these are targeted to men specifically.

The services offered differ. Many provide information, education and referral, while others offer a safe environment for men to come together and take control of their mental health by talking about their health, behaviours and experiences and encouraging them to seek further assistance and treatment if necessary. These forums may be attractive to some men, as an easy non-threatening first step to taking action about their mental health.

Man Therapy is a new initiative by Beyondblue which uses humour in an attempt to connect with men.

A recent newcomer, Mr Perfect, is a ‘grassroots, mental health support network that aims to transform men’s mental health by making it a comfortable discussion for all’.

I recently interviewed Mr Perfect about his service, please click here to read the full interview. 

Some other mental health services are listed at the end of this article.

 

The good news

For most men, mental illness is not a life sentence. Most will fully recover especially if they receive help early. Some may require ongoing treatment to manage their illness.

Many men living with mental illness have jobs and participate in community life.

There are now many more organisations that help men improve their mental and physical health. Education and awareness about mental health has increased. Prevention, early intervention and better treatment for mental illness have been steadily improving.

 

Some takeaway messages

  1. Do seek help early, whether it’s through men’s health forums or treatment. Don’t ignore it!

  2. Ask family and friends for help and support. Don’t assume you are a burden to them.

  3. Follow the advice of professional people.

  4. Believe that you can get better.

 

Some mental health services

 

References

Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2008). National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing: Summary of Results, 2007. Cat. no. (4326.0). Canberra: ABS.

Australian Health Ministers 2003, endorsement of the National Mental Health Plan 2003-2008, renewing the National Mental Health Strategy for a further five year period.

Ricciardelli, L.A., 2012, The Quiet Crisis:Challenges for men’s health in Australia. In Australian Psychology Society, In Psych, August 2012. 

About Lindsay Pieper

Lindsay is a Clinical Psychologist who has experience providing treatment in private and public settings for children, adolescents, and adults. Lindsay is the Director and Principal Psychologist of The Integrative Psychology Clinic, a progressive psychology practice located in Manly Vale on Sydney's Northern Beaches.