In late March, English soccer star Ben Chilwell admitted to receiving mental health care after missing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to a torn hamstring. In doing so, he validated the act of getting help. This is just one example of many in which men are coming forth about their mental health. However, it’s up to all of us to look out. The onus is not simply on individual men to change. It’s also on health service providers and society as a whole.
Keep an eye out for these five ways we’re understanding men’s mental health differently these days, whether it’s to prevent or heal mental health issues in yourself or a loved one.
Stigmatized issues are normal
According to Mental Health America, five major issues impacting men include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. Neal Holmes, primary therapist and supervisor for other pre-licensed clinicians at Sun Point Wellness Center, says body issues for men are particularly common, noting that men tend to look at their bodies as their masculine portrayal in the world. “That doesn’t always align with men who are trying to challenge those toxic masculinity views,” says Holmes.
In addition, Holmes highlights the importance of talking about intimacy, despite the fact it’s a heavily stigmatized topic and a deeply personal space. Holmes points out major rabbit holes, like: “What’s the difference for a male, in their perception of being sexual versus being romantic?”
We all must work against toxic masculinity
Holmes defines toxic masculinity as an unhealthy way of looking at masculine gender roles in society, which is often prescribed by societal norms. He adds that we must challenge these norms to create more equity—within spaces of communication as well as power dynamics in family and capitalistic systems.
Getting help is what you make it
“Therapy doesn’t have to be the only way to deal with one’s problems,” says Holmes. Coming from a therapist, this is big. Holmes adds that community—whether your family, faith network, or anyone else you choose—can be extremely helpful. He advocates for networks of support that help men see into themselves.
If you do choose therapy, find someone who’s willing to take the time to build rapport, Holmes suggests. For particularly hesitant clients, he says, “I may not really get to the root of their therapeutic problems until the fourth or sixth session, but that’s okay.”
The myths around men’s mental health are deteriorating
Society maintains a lot of preconceived notions about men, including that they don’t know how to express their feelings. Holmes says this is a myth, and it may just take work to externalize feelings. He adds, “I like to dispel those rumors that men aren’t able or capable to do that and help men tap into those communication resources to do so.”
Upstream prevention is our best bet in tackling the men’s mental health crisis
The reality is that men’s mental health is a crisis. Marginalized groups, including elders, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and men of color, may be at particular risk, research suggests. Prevention efforts are key, including creating psychologically healthy school and work environments.
Arthur C. Evans, PhD, CEO of the American Psychological Association, told policymakers in March, “These kinds of upstream strategies help ensure that the workforce isn’t limited to people with a license and degree, but instead, teachers and managers.” In short, it’s up to all of us—not just those suffering—to make a better world.
