What’s the emphasis with all this focus on the health of boys and men? Isn’t it true that they’re fine?
The answer is no!
According to Movember, a men’s health organization, about a fifth of men claim their mental health has gotten worse since the coronavirus pandemic began. Worryingly, over half claim no one has checked about their well-being. This indicates that many men are suffering in silence.
Because, in most nations, including Australia, male health is typically poor than female health. Males die at a higher rate than females at all stages of life, have more accidents, commit suicide, and suffer from lifestyle-related health problems than girls of the same age.
Meanwhile, men are less likely to visit general practitioners, and it is assumed that they are unconcerned about their health or that health professionals are unprepared to deal successfully with males.
But that isn’t the point of Men’s Health Week!
The US Congress established Men’s Health Week in 1994 to raise awareness of avoidable health issues and encourage early diagnosis and treatment of disease among men and boys.
Each June, Men’s Health Week in Australia provides a forum for confronting and debating significant topics in men’s health, as well as raising awareness of men’s health outcomes and needs across the country.
Men’s abilities, accomplishments, and significant position in society are celebrated in our approach. It’s a week dedicated to men’s celebration and engagement, with a healthy dose thrown in for good measure!
So, what’s the deal with the silence?
It might be due to a conviction that we should just get on with things, a reluctance among men to confess to themselves or others that they’re struggling, or a perception of pressure to be strong. But, as the Men’s Health Week organizers put it, “you may be powerful without being silent”!
Men have a hard time putting their thoughts into words, and if they’re having a hard time, they’re more prone to stay quiet.
This is something we’re seeing at Ieso: one therapist explained how female patients are discussing their concerns about the pandemic and the impacts of lockdown, but male patients prefer to stay focused on the specific problem they came to us to treat, such as a phobia or depression.
It’s OK not to be OK
It’s not surprising if you’re suffering more stress, anxiety, or despair these days. Our job, home, and social life have all been disturbed, and the future is filled with uncertainty. Our days have lost their usual rhythm. This is almost certain to elicit new emotions and sentiments.
Coronavirus is a scenario that we can’t ‘problem solve’ our way out of, which may leave us feeling irritated and helpless. Many individuals will be anxious about keeping their families safe and well-fed, especially if their work and financial stability are in jeopardy. We’re all less linked to one another, including co-workers, friends, and family. This can be destabilizing, and it might even make you feel lonely.
Routine and structure are crucial to us as humans, so if you’ve been furloughed or are working from home, you could feel a little confused and aimless. Many of us derive a feeling of accomplishment and purpose from our job, and we may be missing out on this, as well as co-worker companionship.
Myths
Myth1- Real men don’t seek for help (asking for help is weak)
There’s no denying that being vulnerable and honest with people is difficult, therefore asking for help is a sign of bravery and courage. Men and women alike can benefit from reaching out when they feel the need to, whether it’s to a professional or a loved one.
Myth 2- Mental illness is a sign of weakness.
We can’t stress enough that mental illness is not synonymous with mental weakness. Mental illness, like physical sickness, can strike anybody at any time and is frequently beyond our control. A multitude of circumstances might cause it, including altered brain chemistry, substance addiction, or a reaction to stressful/traumatic experiences or abusive conditions.
Myth 3- It won’t help to talk about it.
Having an outside voice may sometimes be quite beneficial in providing a fresh perspective on a problem. While talking about it won’t always ‘fix’ or ‘solve’ what’s going on, it may certainly help you make sense of what’s going on and make you feel more supported and less alone.
Myth 4- Others will be burdened if you ask for help.
People want to help those they care about, therefore asking for assistance does not make you a burden. Everyone has periods in their lives when they require the assistance of others. Being willing to ask for help will inspire people around you to do the same when they need it.
These are all just a few of the myths that may make it difficult for men to seek help. The fact is that there are certain deeply rooted and problematic perceptions about men’s mental health that are unlikely to change quickly. But that doesn’t rule out the possibility of action.
Recognize that these attitudes exist, be aware of how they may impact your own opinions, and don’t be hesitant to speak up against them. Also, whether you’re male, female, or don’t identify as either, remember to check in on your friends and give them with a safe environment to discuss their experiences, whether you’re male, female, or don’t identify as either.
How can you contribute and help your father, brothers, husband and all your male friends?
You can help by becoming more aware and open, by reading more on topics related to mens mental health, by talking to people around you and by choosing a career in this stream.
You can choose IHNA’s CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health to expand your knowledge and work towards fighting the stigma of Mental Health.
A Diploma in Mental Health is a professional qualification that teaches you how and when to care for individuals who have mental health problems. People continue to deal with emotional issues that conflict and constrict them, and they often fail to find the best advocates to assist them with getting back on track. They will be inspired to overcome their struggles and live a happier life in any way with the right help.
IHNA’s Diploma is a 40-week full time,
Available at our Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney campus (blended delivery available).
Course Fees: $9900
Government Funding Available
For more details: Visit IHNA’s Website
The curriculum will prepare you to offer counselling, referral, advocacy, and education/health promotion programs, as this role involves a person-centred approach.
Join our CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health and become an expert and expertise your skills on the policies that are concerning people with mental health problems.
“Regardless of who you are or what you do for a living, depression doesn’t discriminate … The key thing I found is … especially for us as guys…. you gotta talk about it, you’re not alone.” – Dwayne Johnson
