Men often prefer not to talk about difficult experiences or inner struggles that they may be facing. When growing up, they might have been told to ‘man up’ when they attempted to talk about a problem with someone they trusted, which can create a sense of shame or isolation.
This can be a very damaging experience, and the consequences of these attitudes are borne out by the statistics: men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women, and are also more likely to go missing, become homeless, and be addicted to drugs or alcohol.
For some men, unresolved mental health issues can manifest as anger, violence, self-harm or risk taking behaviour. In recent years, there has been a lot more awareness about the issues that many men are battling with in silence. Here’s a look at the particular challenges men can face at different life stages.
Young adulthood
The ages from 18-30 can be an exciting journey of discovery, but they are also fraught with uncertainty. This is particularly true in today’s world, where house prices are soaring and the job market is increasingly competitive. Men may struggle with stress and anxiety as they strive to build a career, establish a home and form meaningful relationships.
At this age men are physically at their peak, and any sexual performance issues such as erectile dysfunction (ED) are most often caused by a psychological issue such as stress or anxiety rather than a physical problem. It’s important to find an outlet for any sources of worry, such as talking to a friend or family member.
If men in this age group have persistent ED and are taking steps to treat any mental health problems, a doctor may recommend Viagra, which can be bought online as sildenafil.
30s to 40s
These years can be very rewarding, as men may start families and advance in their careers. However, the pressure of juggling adult responsibilities and living up to society’s expectations can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
Midlife
The late 40s to 50s can prompt soul searching and reflection as men evaluate their careers, relationships, and achievements, and perhaps question some of the choices they have made in life. It can be a time when physical health issues become more apparent, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes.
These factors are also more likely to contribute to ED, which can place a strain on relationships and can exacerbate mental health issues such as depression. A doctor may recommend lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, taking more exercise, and reducing alcohol consumption, alongside medication such as sildenafil.
Older age
Older men may face loneliness as they retire from jobs and lose contact with work colleagues, and their social circles begin to shrink. They may experience bereavement or the loss of a partner. Men in this age group are more likely to be living with chronic health conditions such as heart disease or prostate cancer.
How men’s mental health challenges are being addressed
There is no one size fits all answer to mental health problems, because everyone is unique and has different life experiences. However, many problems can be successfully managed by talking with trusted friends or professionals. Staying physically active and maintaining hobbies and interests can also help.
London charity reaches out to men who have mental health struggles
Sky News reports that the London based charity Oak London has offered a chance for men to come together and open up about their emotions.
Jos Lucas, founder of Oak London, says: “Because we’re outside of London, outside of distractions, outside of people having to look over their shoulder every minute… I think it naturally happens, in group discussions, that people do feel that they can trust each other, they can talk about things that they might not otherwise have the opportunity to talk about.”
One participant, Harry, explained: “A lot of times you talk to your friends and especially with men, you talk to them and say, how are you doing People say ‘Yeah, I’m good,’ and they won’t be good because they think you either don’t care or they think you don’t hear it, or they’re worried that you’re going to judge them.”
Men who are facing challenges are encouraged to seek support and remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
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