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In a society where men are often expected to be strong and emotionally resilient, discussions about mental health among men remain largely taboo. Phrases like "mard ko dard nahi hota" (men don’t feel pain) or "why are you crying like a girl?" have been passed down through generations, making it seem like men should never show emotions.
This silence increases harmful stereotypes, leaving many men to suffer in isolation. In India, where cultural and societal norms play a significant role, the need for open conversations about mental well-being has never been more critical.
Studies show that men are less likely to seek help for mental health concerns due to fear of judgment or appearing "unmanly" (Staiger et al., 2020). Breaking the stigma surrounding men’s mental health requires a collective effort to foster understanding, empathy, and safe spaces for dialogue. After all, even Superman probably needed a therapist after saving the world multiple times. This blog explores mental health issues among men, common disorders they face, effective treatment methods, and why platforms like Rocket Health India can make a difference.
Understanding Mental Health Among Men
Mental health is about how we feel, think, and interact with others. For many men, society expects them to appear strong and hide their feelings, making it hard for them to talk about or deal with their mental health. This pressure often leads to bottled-up emotions and untreated problems.
As a result, the impact can be serious. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), men are more likely than women to die by suicide worldwide, including in India. Issues like job loss, money problems, and relationship challenges make things worse, showing how important it is to address men’s mental health openly and supportively.
Common Mental Health Disorders Among Men
1. Depression:
Men often experience depression differently than women. While sadness and low mood are common, men may exhibit irritability, aggression, or risk-taking behaviors. Symptoms include fatigue, loss of interest in activities, and physical ailments such as headaches or digestive issues. In India, financial stress and societal expectations contribute significantly to male depression. Women are diagnosed with depression twice as often as men. However, higher rates of substance abuse, imprisonment, and especially suicide among men suggest that men might not be less prone to depression than women. It's possible that men experience a different, “masculine” form of depression that often goes unnoticed and untreated (Kilmartin, 2005).
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2. Anxiety Disorders:
Anxiety manifests as excessive worry, fear, or nervousness, often interfering with daily life. In men, anxiety can present as restlessness, difficulty concentrating, or even physical symptoms like chest pain. Work-related stress and pressure to meet familial responsibilities are common triggers in India. According to a study, men with anxiety can openly discuss their issues with significant women in their lives, but may be more reluctant to open up to other men, especially in safe contexts (Gough et al., 2021).
3. Substance Use Disorders:
To cope with unaddressed emotions, many men turn to alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. Substance use not only masks underlying mental health issues but also creates dependency, leading to further deterioration of well-being. Data from India reveals a rising prevalence of substance abuse among men, often linked to stress or peer pressure. A USA study found that more than half of the people with both a substance use disorder and another mental illness are men (4.1 million) (McHugh et al., 2017).
4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
Men exposed to traumatic events, such as accidents or violence, may develop PTSD. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional numbness.War and military personnels are at an even higher risk for PTSD.
5. Suicidal Ideation and Behavior:
In India, suicide rate was 2.6 times higher among indian men compared to women , Moreover, in 2021, married men recorded triple the suicide death rate (Yadav et al., 2023). Factors such as unemployment, relationship breakdowns, or untreated mental illnesses often contribute to suicidal thoughts. Social isolation and lack of support exacerbate these feelings.
Steps to Treat Mental Health Issues Among Men
1. Recognize the Signs:
The first step is awareness. Educate yourself and others to recognize symptoms such as persistent sadness, irritability, or changes in behavior. Early identification is crucial for effective intervention.
2. Encourage Open Communication:
Creating safe, non-judgmental spaces where men feel comfortable sharing their emotions is vital. Normalize discussions about mental health at home, workplaces, and within social circles.
3. Seek Professional Help:
Encourage men to consult psychologists, counselors, or psychiatrists. Mental health professionals can provide accurate diagnoses and tailor treatment plans, including therapy or medication, if required.
4. Promote Healthy Coping Mechanisms:
Help men adopt healthier ways to cope with stress, such as:
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, reducing stress and improving mood.
- Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like meditation or yoga can enhance emotional regulation.
- Creative Outlets: Engaging in hobbies like art, music, or writing offers therapeutic benefits.
5. Leverage Online Therapy Platforms:
Online therapy has revolutionized access to mental health care in India. It’s discreet, flexible, and eliminates geographical barriers. Platforms like Rocket Health India provide professional support tailored to individual needs, making therapy accessible for men hesitant to seek help in traditional settings.
Why Online Therapy is Effective
In a country like India, where stigma and logistical challenges often prevent men from seeking help, online therapy offers a game-changing solution. Benefits include:
- Anonymity: Men can seek help without fear of judgment.
- Convenience: Flexible scheduling and remote access make therapy manageable alongside work or family commitments.
- Tailored Services: Platforms like Rocket Health India connect clients with therapists who specialize in male mental health issues, ensuring personalized care.
Why Rocket Health India is the Right Choice
Rocket Health India stands out as a pioneer in mental health care, offering:
- Qualified Professionals: A team of certified therapists experienced in addressing men’s mental health concerns.
- Culturally Relevant Therapy: Understanding the unique challenges faced by Indian men.
- Holistic Approach: Combining evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with mindfulness and lifestyle interventions.
- Affordability: Affordable plans ensure mental health care is accessible to everyone.
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Conclusion
Encouraging open discussions about mental health among men is not just about breaking stereotypes—it’s about saving lives. By understanding common disorders, fostering empathy, and promoting effective treatment strategies, we can create a supportive environment where men feel empowered to seek help. Online therapy platforms like Rocket Health India play a crucial role in bridging the gap, providing accessible and effective care tailored to Indian men’s unique needs.
Let’s break the silence and take the first step toward a mentally healthier India.
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, don’t wait to seek help. Visit Rocket Health India today to connect with certified therapists who can guide you toward better mental well-being. Your journey to a healthier mind starts here.
References
Gough, B., Robertson, S., & Luck, H. (2021). Engendered Expressions of anxiety: men’s emotional communications with women and other men. Frontiers in Sociology, 6. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoc.2021.697356
Kilmartin, C. (2005). Depression in men: communication, diagnosis and therapy. The Journal of Men's Health and Gender, 2(1), 95–99. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmhg.2004.10.010
McHugh, R. K., Votaw, V. R., Sugarman, D. E., & Greenfield, S. F. (2017). Sex and gender differences in substance use disorders. Clinical Psychology Review, 66, 12–23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2017.10.012
Staiger, T., Stiawa, M., Mueller-Stierlin, A. S., Kilian, R., Beschoner, P., Gündel, H., Becker, T., Frasch, K., Panzirsch, M., Schmauß, M., & Krumm, S. (2020). Masculinity and Help-Seeking among Men with Depression: a Qualitative study. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2020.599039
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