The research that has been done on men’s mental health has revealed distinct differences between how men and women express and cope with distress and stress. Unfortunately, men are often reluctant to discuss their emotions and even more hesitant to receive help. Consequently, it is important to recognize potential signs of mental or emotional issues so that men can receive timely and appropriate treatment, ultimately resulting in improved quality of life.
Men and women can both suffer from a range of mental disorders, however, their degree of openness about their feelings can be radically different. This can explain why the signs and symptoms of their illnesses vary significantly. Often, men with depression or anxiety will appear to be angry or confrontational, instead of showing sadness, which is the common expression among women. Some men also attempt to deal with their emotional issues by using drugs or alcohol. Furthermore, physical problems such as racing heartbeats, chest tightness, chronic headaches, and digestive issues can also be indicators of a mental health issue.
Warning signs of Men’s Mental Health:
- Anger, irritability or aggressiveness
- Noticeable changes in mood, energy level, or appetite
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless, or on edge
- Increased worry or feeling stressed
- A need for alcohol or drugs
- Sadness or hopelessness
- Suicidal thoughts
- Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions
- Engaging in high-risk activities
- Ongoing headaches, digestive issues, or pain
- Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior
- Thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work, family, or social life
- Unusual thinking or behaviors that concern other people
Please note that the above is provided as information only and is not meant to be used as a diagnosis or take the place of professional counselling services.