It’s an unfortunate truth that men often under-report and under-recognize symptoms of their mental illnesses. Regardless of the reason, men all across the country refuse treatment for depression and anxiety. Some studies have shown that men may be more likely to complete suicide more successfully than women. The epidemic of suicidal thought and ideation is very real.
If you think you’re experiencing symptoms of a mental illness, it’s imperative you seek help. It’s likely that society has indoctrinated you to believe that seeking help is effeminate. They might have taught you to stomp down your emotions and “man up.” However, these tropes are harmful.
Let’s look at why men are more likely to ignore their symptoms.
Why Are Men More Likely to Ignore Signs of Depression?
Depression and anxiety are insidious mental illnesses. They prey on our sense of self-worth and our faith in the ability to recall our own narratives. Some reasons men might ignore their depressive symptoms are:
They’re Embarrassed
Men often trivialize their emotions because they’re embarrassed. It’s important to understand that emotions, phobia, and feelings are a part of being human.
Everyone has struggles. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Anxiety and depression are extremely common, and mental illness doesn’t discriminate based on gender. They’re deeply rooted chemical imbalances, and it’s okay to need help to resolve them.
They Think It’s Fake
Mental illness is not visible to the naked eye, but it is real. Many men believe that their mental illness is all in their head, that it will just go away if they do enough, are enough, or are successful enough. Just like if you were to injure yourself with an Xacto knife or an electrical tool, mental illness causes harm.
It’s dangerous to leave it untreated. They can lead to high blood pressure, weakened immune systems, digestive issues, fatigue, weight gain or loss, substance abuse, and suicide. A cut on your hand or a severed digit will not stitch itself back together magically. Similarly, a mental illness is unlikely to vanish or go away on its own.
They Think It’s Untreatable
There are some amazing treatment options in the field of mental health. Different classes of medications and alternative methods, like acupuncture and meditation, have found footholds. Regardless of how intense your symptoms are, there is help for you.
Depression makes you believe everything is hopeless. Mental illnesses can be all-consuming, but they’re very treatable. It takes time and patience. You’ll need to develop self-awareness and self-compassion. Talk to the people around you about getting support and be transparent about how you’re feeling.
They’re Taught To Ignore It
Our parents have taught the current adult generation, and many before and after, certain methods of thinking. They have imprinted us with schools of thought, and sometimes we’re not even aware. One of those imprints is likely toxic masculinity.
Were you ever told to “man up” as a child? Or that you were “crying like a little girl” or needed to “walk it off”? These are all phrases that are meant to emasculate young boys by demonizing their emotions. It’s unhealthy to lock all of your emotions inside of yourself.
Getting Help
You are worthy of help, and getting help for your mental illnesses is just as important as getting help for physical ailments. You can talk to a professional therapist about your depressive symptoms. They can help diagnose you and discuss the best treatment options available to you.
Remember, acknowledging your struggle and getting help for your mental wellbeing is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it's a sign of strength.