June is International Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month.
Mental health professional Dr Gagu Matsebula, of SASOP (SA Society of Psychiatrists), warns that a culture of silence may be preventing men from getting the support they need.
“Men are significantly less likely than women to seek help for mental health challenges, often waiting until symptoms have become severe before reaching out for support.
“Men are taught from a young age to ‘man up’, to suppress vulnerability, and to avoid appearing weak. The problem is that these same expectations prevent many men from speaking openly about emotional distress,” Matsebula said.
“I think the biggest change we need is teaching boys from a young age that emotions are normal. If we encourage honest conversations earlier, fewer men will suffer in silence later in life.”
“I think a lot of men keep things bottled up because they don’t want to seem weak. There’s pressure to always have everything under control, even when you’re struggling. We need to make it normal for men to ask for help.”
Mental health conditions can manifest differently in men, he elaborated.
Instead of expressing sadness, many experience irritability, anger, emotional withdrawal, substance abuse, overworking or risk-taking behaviour.
Untreated mental health conditions can affect relationships, work performance, parenting, physical health, and overall quality of life.
“Men are usually expected to provide for their families and solve problems. That pressure can become overwhelming. Talking to someone doesn’t make you weak; it helps you cope better.”
Matsebula said men are encouraged to pay attention to warning signs – ongoing irritability, emotional withdrawal, changes in sleep patterns, increased alcohol use, fatigue, anxiety and feelings of hopelessness.
“In an effort to help men be more comfortable to open up about their mental health, it is important to make them aware that they can get support in many forms, including counselling, psychotherapy, support groups, lifestyle changes and, where necessary, medication.
“Social media has helped start more conversations about mental health, but many men still feel uncomfortable opening up. Sometimes it’s easier to stay quiet than explain what you’re going through.”
“The message men need to hear is simple: speaking up is not weakness. Reaching out is not failure. Mental health conditions are treatable, and seeking support early can change and save lives.”
ALSO READ:Mental health team raises dementia awareness
ALSO READ:Word on the Street
