◦    Mental health issues affect individuals regardless of gender, yet men often face unique challenges due to societal expectations and traditional masculinity norms. These norms can take a toll on them  which in turns prevents them from seeking help, expressing emotions, and acknowledging their struggles. This article explores the impact of traditional masculinity on men's mental health.

Signs and Symptoms 

symptoms of mental health disorders in men may look like this

The Evidence of Declining Mental Health Among Men

    ◦    The prevalence of mental health issues among men is alarming. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 10% of men worldwide experience mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. The ADAA reports that over 6 million men in the United States suffer from depression annually. In India, the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) highlights that men are particularly at risk of mental health issues due to societal pressures and stigma.

- Though men account for about 10% of patients with bulimia or anorexia, men with an eating disorder are less likely to seek professional help. 

- Over 6 million men suffer from depression per year, but male depression often goes undiagnosed 

- More than 3 million men in the US have panic disorder, agoraphobia, or any other phobia. 

What Are These Traditional Norms?

    ◦    These traditional masculinity norms could hinder with the mental well being of men. Societal norms often expect men to be stoic and emotionally reserved this suppression of emotions can often lead to stress, anxiety and depression.

    ◦    Men usually don’t seek professional help for mental health issues due to stigma associated with being perceived weak.

- Traditional norms that affect men’s mental health include:-

1. Stoicism:- Men are often expected to be stoic and unemotional, which discourages them from expressing feelings or seeking help when required.

2. Self-Reliance:- There's a cultural expectation for men to handle problems on their own, which can prevent them from seeking support from others which in turn just adds to their stress

3. Strength and Dominance:- The belief that men should always be strong and dominant can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem when they experience vulnerability or failure.

4. Provider Role:- Men are traditionally seen as the primary breadwinners, which can create immense pressure to succeed professionally and financially, which can lead to increased stress and anxiety.

The Bottom Line of Why We Need to Support Men's Mental Health

To cope with emotional distress men might also turn to substance abuse, which can exacerbate mental health problems. According to a survey done by the American Foundation for suicide prevention -“In 2022, men died by suicide 3.85 times more than women”. To get rid of the stigma surrounding the mental health of men, we need to challenge the masculinity norms. For that, we have to promote emotional literacy among men of all age groups, help them understand and express their emotions and reduce this reproach associated with vulnerability. Redefining the meaning of strength and creating a supportive environment where men can talk about their emotions with openness and honesty.

Encouraging open discussions about mental health, creating supportive environments, and promoting access to mental health resources are crucial. Therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and peer support can be effective treatments. Therefore this shift would not only help men individually but also contribute to a healthier and more compassionate society overall.