Health

But if you’re a guy who’s ever struggled with mental health or you know one who has, you may know better. Let’s consider the unique set of challenges and stigmas standing between men and mental well-being.

Boys vs. Girls: By The Numbers

Men are three times more likely than women to become dependent on alcohol and three times more likely to engage in frequent drug use.

In 2014, men accounted for seven of every 10 suicides in the United States. Studies show men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women because they act more quickly on suicidal ideations and show fewer warning signs.

Depression is the No. 1 risk factor leading to suicide, so data suggesting men experience depression less frequently than women doesn’t line up with national suicide rates. Why are men being diagnosed at significantly lower rates? Blame it on societal expectations.

PPD For Dad

Did you know fathers can suffer postpartum depression, too? It’s called paternal postnatal depression (PPND). A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that while 10 percent of men suffer from depression, that number shoots up to 26 percent during the three- to six-month period after the birth. Unfortunately, little research has been done on the condition, but male hormonal changes and the overwhelmed feelings of being a parent are thought to contribute. Half of all men whose wives suffer PPD will experience it as well. Seek help immediately if you think you may be suffering from PPND.

Stupid Stigmas

Do Conditions Differ?

Although men and women experience the same symptoms of a given mental illness (like depression), their conditions may present di erently. Men with depression may feel the same hopelessness and lack of passion as women but may be less likely to cry in front of others or discuss their feelings. Instead, keep an eye out for excessive drinking or distancing behaviors. Some psychologists believe these di erences in symptoms stem from women internalizing negative emotions while men externalize them.

Although conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder a ect the same number of men and women, men are more likely to be diagnosed with alcoholism, substance abuse and antisocial personality disorders than anxiety or depression because of their externalized behaviors. Here are some things to watch out for in yourself or the men in your life:

› Textbook symptoms of mental illness: feelings of dread, hopelessness, helplessness, lethargy, isolation, change in hygiene and trouble sleeping

› Excessive drinking or substance abuse (watch out for secretive or suspicious behavior, excessive spending and changes in friend groups)

› Uncharacteristic irritability, anger, violence or controlling behavior

› Escapist behaviors, like spending tons of time at work

› Risky behaviors, like reckless driving or gambling

Guys, have you ever been told to man up? That grown men don’t cry? Masculinity is a big deal in American culture, and the tough guy image doesn’t include going to therapy. That may be why so few men seek professional help for their mental illness.

“To benefit from counseling, a man must admit that he needs help, must rely on the counselor and must openly discuss and express emotion. These requirements conflict with traditional ideals of what it means to be male: toughness, independence and emotional control,” says the American Psychological Association website. Hispanic and African American men are even less likely to seek care according to the CDC, which says these stereotypes may be even more pronounced in their lives.

How To Get Help

Fellas, if you’re interested in professional help, don’t let the tough guy rep stop you. Consider the following:

Admit the need for help to yourself and know you can work with your psychologist to customize your consultations. They want to make their client comfortable and help them be successful, so talk openly with them about any concerns.

Make an appointment with your general practitioner. They can discuss your situation, give suggestions for treatment and make referrals.

While searching for the right provider for you, take care of your body. Eat nutritional foods and get eight hours of sleep to stay balanced when you feel unwell.

LISTEN, GUYS: No matter the condition, getting professional care ASAP is important. Forget being a tough guy and show your strength by taking control of your mental health. What could be more bad*** than breaking the silence?