Stomping The Stigma Around MENtal Health

ping the igma around MENtal Health

"Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of but stigma and bias shame us all."

MENTAL HEALTH DOESN’T

DISCRIMINATE. It has faces. A powerful statement that shoulders stigma is men’s mental health. Men are expected to be strong, stoic, and provide. e pressure associated with “being the man of the family” makes it trickier to admit they are not okay. e preconceived male stereotype, combined with the portrayal of mental health as a weakness, is a recipe for disaster. Society correlates mental health with shame. is impacts how men seek professional help. e destructive generational cycle must end. We, as society, must Stomp the Stigma around mental health, especially for men, the military, and rst responders.

In 2021, 46 million Americans experienced mental illness – 1 in 4 adults. Men are less likely to seek professional help, with suicide being a leading cause of death. Men are 4x more likely to commit suicide. When are we, as a society, going to act and overcome this silent crisis?

e shadows of men's mental health are cast in negative proportions for “men to be strong." True strength comes from being honest, vulnerable, and proactive. Being strong does not mean that there aren’t challenges. It is the ability to overcome - express emotions, maintain relationships, and utilize e cient coping strategies! e time is NOW to hold hard conversations, actively listen, and educate ourselves. Barriers can be removed so challenges that are unique to men are addressed. Most nd it di cult to identify their feelings and don’t recognize when they are mentally unbalanced. Even when they sense “something isn’t right,” they mask it for fear of judgment or repercussions. Men are less likely to talk, becoming isolated and choosing harmful coping mechanisms – alcohol, drugs, or gambling. is creates lower self-esteem and places strain on relationships, which compounds depression. Men, especially within the military and rst responders, have learned to “push things down” or avoid. It is “easier” (not healthier) to evade rather than work through. Six million men su er from depression with 75 percent saying “I’m ne." Truthfully, they are scared, feeling helpless, and struggling.

Have you noticed these personality and physical shifts within a man?

• Aggressiveness & Irritability • Aches & Pains • Changes in Appetite • Chest Pain & Heart Rate • Digestive Issues • Frustration • Substance Abuse • Trouble Concentrating • Trouble Sleeping • Unusual Behaviors

Spouses, friends, and family notice changes in personality. Be honest - “You seem o lately, I am here however you need.” ere are unknown variables as to how to start the conversation, yet honest admission is paramount. Most men claim to be "tough enough to x it on their own" OR “therapy doesn’t work.” Healing takes perseverance, time, and e ort. It may unlock painful memories that need attention, not denial. Healing is worth it!

As you think of your loved ones OR yourself, know that mental illness has symptoms … very real and recognizable symptoms! It is not your job to “ x”; it is your job to be supportive through their healing process. It is their journey. e di cult part is breaking barriers, understanding the complexities, and o ering non-judgmental support. Having the courage to ask for help is the ultimate strength. w

LKNEXPERT Katie Stankiewicz is the CEO of Willow Equine and the executive director of Soul to Soles Connection. Katie brings the authentic healing power of horses to civilian and military clients through ground-based counseling and personal development. Soul to Sole o ers free counseling to all military, Veterans and their families. For more information on services OR to donate, visit www.Willow-Equine.com or www.s2sConnection.org or call 704.237.0644.