How to recognize and prevent mental health problems in men?

Men’s mental health is an issue that is often overlooked and underestimated. However, it deserves special attention. Faced with social stigma, men often find it harder to express their feelings and talk about their difficulties. This pressure leads many of them to keep their problems to themselves and to be reluctant to seek help, even when they need it.

It is critical to raise awareness of this reality and support men in emotional distress. By speaking openly and offering the right resources, we can save lives and help those who suffer regain mental and emotional balance.

• Causes and risk factors
• Signs and symptoms
• Support
• Consult a doctor

Pressure, loneliness and mental load of men

We often talk about pressure and mental load in women, but men can also go through situations that generate stress and anxiety. Whether it’s due to their work, family situation, social environment, or other personal challenges, they too face high expectations and pressures that affect their emotional well-being.

• Social and cultural pressures on masculinity: the traditional role of the strong man within a family, a financial provider and who is not afraid of anything.
• Discrimination: based on sexual orientation, ethnic origin, physical appearance. Canadian men who are gay, bisexual and racialized are at increased risk for depression.
• Loneliness: men living alone, single, and social isolation related to aging.
• Pressure at work: long hours, burnout at work
• Job loss or professional failure
• Marital conflicts: tensions within the couple, separations and divorces
• Conflicts friends or family members
• Fatherhood and parenthood: anxiety or stress for new fathers
• Loss of a loved one and mourning
• Childhood trauma: violence, abuse, neglect
• Adult violence: physical, sexual or emotional violence
• Health problems: chronic or disabling diseases
• Sexual health problems: erectile dysfunction, fertility problems
• Addictions: alcohol, drugs, gambling, social networks, work

For some men, these situations can create stress, anxiety or other mental health problems. If you or a loved one is in one of these situations, it’s important to pay attention to the signs of emotional distress.

Spotting the signs of mental distress in a man

It’s essential to know how to recognize the signs of a deterioration in men’s mental health, whether it’s in you or a loved one. These signs may include:

• Mood swing: Frequent irritability or anger, for no apparent reason.
• Persistent sadness: Feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities that used to provide pleasure.
• Fatigue and constant exhaustion, even without having made any physical effort.
• Lack of concentration and attention.
• Isolation: Tendency to avoid social interactions, withdrawing from loved ones, friends or colleagues.
• Sleep disorders: Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep, insomnia, frequent nightmares.
• Variation in appetite or weight
• Substance abuse: Increased use of alcohol, drugs, or medication to cope with difficult emotions.
• Risky behaviours, such as driving dangerously.
• Self-neglect: Lack of self-care, poor personal hygiene or lack of interest in appearance.
• Suicidal thoughts: Thoughts related to death or suicide. Immediate attention is needed. Please contact a mental health professional or call the suicide line at 9-8-8.

These signs and symptoms can indicate potential mental distress. However, it is important not to self-diagnose. Always seek the advice of a doctor or mental health professional.

At ELNA Medical, our mental health professionals are here to help with personalized care. Talk to a doctor.

Helping and supporting men’s mental health

Men are less likely than women to talk about their problems because of the stigma around mental health. This is why families and friends must play a crucial role in preventing mental illness and suicide among men. Together, we can normalize the dialogue around men’s mental health and offer real emotional support by encouraging them to seek help without fear of judgment.

Movember’s ALEC method

Movember is a men’s health charity. The association has developed the ALEC method to help men who are suffering emotionally or who are going through difficult times. This tool aims to break taboos and encourage open conversations to improve men’s mental health. The approach is based on four key actions:

• A – Ask: Be alert to the signs of poor mental health in the men around you. If you notice a change in their behavior, start a conversation and express your concerns in a caring way.
• L – Listen:  Give them the opportunity to express themselves, ask them questions without judging or minimizing their emotions. Create a space where they can talk freely about how they feel.
• E – Encourage action: Encourage the person to take action to get better, whether it’s by consulting a mental health professional, talking to a friend, or making lifestyle changes.
• C – Check in: Follow up with regular check-ins. Long-term support is essential to get through a difficult time.

Consult a mental health professional

Seeking help from a healthcare professional is a crucial step in managing men’s mental health issues. A doctor can help you find suitable solutions for effective and sustainable support. There are several options available to you:

• Family doctor: A doctor can assess symptoms, rule out physical causes, and refer to a psychologist or psychiatrist if necessary. Natural approaches such as physical exercise, meditation, or changes in diet could be recommended. A doctor may also prescribe antidepressant medication to treat anxiety or depression.
• Psychologist: Psychologists are trained to help patients with anxiety-depressive disorders and other mental disorders through cognitive and behavioral therapies. They provide a safe space to express emotions and learn stress management techniques.
• Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists can diagnose and treat more severe mental health disorders, such as major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, or bipolar disorder. They are able to offer adaptive tools and strategies. They can also prescribe and adjust medications and treatments over time, based on the patient’s progress and needs.