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Male depression: understanding the issues.

Male depression is a serious medical condition, but many men try to ignore it or refuse treatment. Learn the signs and symptoms — and what to do.

Do you feel irritable, isolated or withdrawn? Do you find yourself working all the time? Drinking too much? These unhealthy ways of coping may be clues that you have male depression.

Depression can affect men and women differently. When depression occurs in men, it may be hidden by unhealthy coping behavior. For several reasons, male depression often is not diagnosed or treated and can lead to serious and sometimes tragic results. But when treated, male depression usually gets better.

Male depression symptoms

Depression symptoms can differ in men and women. Men tend to use different coping skills — healthy and unhealthy — than women. It isn't clear why depression affects men and women differently. But these differences could be due to brain chemistry, hormones and life experiences. These differences also could stem from the traditional male role, which discourages the expression of emotions and encourages the pursuit of success, power and competition.

Like women with depression, men with depression may:

  • Feel sad, hopeless or empty.
  • Feel very tired.
  • Have a hard time sleeping or sleep too much.
  • Not get pleasure from activities usually enjoyed.

Other behaviors in men that could be symptoms of depression include:

  • Problems getting along with others, including your spouse or partner and other family members.
  • Escapist behavior, such as spending a lot of time at work or on sports.
  • Physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive problems and pain.
  • Problems with alcohol or drug use.
  • Controlling, violent or abusive behavior.
  • Irritability or anger that gets out of control.
  • Risky behavior, such as reckless driving.

These behaviors could be signs of, or might overlap with, other mental health issues. Or they may be related to medical conditions. In either case, professional help is needed to find out the reason for your symptoms and get proper treatment.

Male depression often is not diagnosed

Men with depression often aren't diagnosed for several reasons, including:

  • Not recognizing depression. You may think that feeling sad or emotional is always the main symptom of depression. But for many men, that isn't the main symptom. For example, headaches, digestive problems, tiredness, irritability or long-term pain sometimes can be symptoms of depression. So can feeling isolated and seeking distraction so that you don't have to deal with feelings or relationships.
  • Not wanting to talk about depression symptoms. You may not be open to talking about your feelings with family, friends or a healthcare professional. Like many men, you may have learned to focus on self-control. You may think it isn't manly to express feelings and emotions related to depression, and you may try to cover them up.
  • Not wanting to get mental health treatment. Even if you think you have depression, you may not want to be diagnosed or treated. You may not want to get help because you're worried that the stigma of depression could harm your career or cause family and friends to lose respect for you.

Male depression and suicide

Although women attempt suicide more often than men do, men are more likely to complete suicide. That's because men:

  • Use methods that are more likely to cause death, such as guns.
  • May act more suddenly in the moment on thoughts about suicide.
  • Show fewer warning signs, such as talking about suicide.
  • Are more likely to turn to drugs and alcohol to cope, which increases the risk of suicide.

If you have thoughts about suicide

If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, contact a suicide hotline.

  • In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline , available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat . Services are free and confidential.
  • U.S. veterans or service members who are in crisis can call 988 and then press "1" for the Veterans Crisis Line . Or text 838255. Or chat online .
  • The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. has a Spanish language phone line at 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free).

If you have access to guns, unload them and lock them in a safe place. You also could put trigger locks on your guns.

If you're having thoughts of suicide, but you aren't thinking of hurting yourself right away, seek help:

  • Reach out to a close friend or loved one, even though it may be hard to talk about your feelings.
  • Talk to a minister, spiritual leader or someone in your faith community.
  • Think about joining a men's health group that deals with depression.
  • Call a suicide crisis center hotline.
  • Make an appointment with your healthcare professional or a mental health professional.

Get help when you need it

Asking for help can be hard for men. But without treatment, depression isn't likely to go away, and it may get worse. Untreated depression can make you and the people close to you miserable. It can cause problems in every part of your life. It can affect your health, career, how well you get along with others and personal safety.

Depression, even if it's severe, usually gets better with medicines or counseling. This includes talk therapy, also called psychotherapy. Sometimes both medicines and counseling are used. If you or someone close to you thinks you may be depressed, talk to your healthcare professional or a mental health professional. It's a sign of strength to ask for advice or seek help when you need it.

Male depression and coping skills

Treatment with a mental health professional can help you learn to:

  • Note your emotions and coping strategies to see how you can make them better.
  • Learn ways to manage stress , such as meditation and mindfulness, and develop problem-solving skills.
  • Learn to adjust your thinking and try new approaches to situations.
  • Decide what is important in your life and move toward those values.
  • Set realistic goals and put tasks in order of importance.
  • Seek out emotional support from a partner, family or friends. Learn how to make social connections so that you can take part in social activities.
  • Wait until you get better before you make important decisions , such as changing jobs.
  • Take part in activities you usually enjoy , such as ballgames, fishing or a hobby.
  • Try to stay on a regular schedule and make healthy lifestyle choices. This includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and not using alcohol and other substances, for better mental health.

Many effective treatments are available for depression. Don't try to deal with male depression on your own. The results could be harmful or tragic.

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  • Men & depression. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/. Accessed Dec. 26, 2023.
  • Swetlitz N. Depression's problem with men. AMA Journal of Ethics. 2021; doi:10.1001/amajethics.2021.586.
  • Call JB, et al. Gendered manifestations of depression and help seeking among men. American Journal of Men's Health. 2018; doi:10.1177/1557988315623993.
  • Depression. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression. Accessed Dec. 26, 2023.
  • Carmona NE, et al. Sex differences in the mediators of functional disability in major depressive disorder. Journal of Psychiatric Research. 2018; doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2017.09.025.
  • Men: A different depression. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/men-boys/depression. Accessed Dec. 26, 2023.
  • Men and mental health. Mental Health Foundation. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/men-and-mental-health. Accessed Dec. 26, 2023.
  • Men's mental health. Anxiety & Depression Society of America. https://adaa.org/find-help/by-demographics/mens-mental-health. Accessed Dec. 26, 2023.
  • Sedlinska T, et al. Male depression syndrome is characterized by pronounced Cluster B personality traits. Journal of Affective Disorders. 2021; doi:10.1016/j.jad.2021.05.114.
  • Mahalik JR, et al. Men's depressive symptoms, health beliefs, masculinity and heart-healthy behaviors: Examining moderators of a mediated model. Psychology of Men & Masculinities. 2023; doi:10.1037/men0000416.
  • Siu Leung Cheung E, et al. Gender variation and late life depression: Findings from a national survey in the USA. Ageing International. 2023; doi:10.1007/s12126-021-09471-5.
  • Kung S (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Jan. 7, 2024.
  • Protecting others and yourself. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. https://afsp.org/protecting-others-and-yourself. Accessed Jan. 9, 2024.

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Men’s Mental Health: How to Care For Your Mental Health as a Man

Why is men’s mental health important? What percentage of males suffer from mental health issues? What can men do to improve their mental health? What are the most common mental health issues among men? What is a common misconception about men’s mental health? If you are looking for answers to these and more questions about men’s mental health, this article is for you.

Hi. My name is Sean Galla. I am a facilitator of support groups and support forums for men, with over 10 years of experience. My work involves providing safe spaces where men can talk about men’s healthcare issues, including mental health.

This article offers a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking for support, information, and help to better understand men’s mental health, including why men need to care about their mental health. Here is everything you need to know about this topic, including how to care for your mental health as a man.

Table of Contents:

  • 1 Men and Mental Health
  • 2 Why Do Men Find It Hard to Talk About Mental Health?
  • 3 Mental Health Issues Common Amongst Men
  • 4 Warning Signs of Men’s Mental Health Issues
  • 5 Tips on How to Improve Men’s Mental Health
  • 6 More About Men’s Group
  • 7 The Bottom Line

An experienced facilitator, community builder and Peer Support Specialist, Sean has been running men's groups for 10+ years. Read Sean's Full Author Bio .

Men and Mental Health

Good mental health is as important as the oxygen humans need to live. While mental health issues can affect both men and women, statistics show that the prevalence of mental illness is higher in women than in men. The national institute of mental health (NIMH) statistics also show that men are less likely to seek medical intervention for mental health issues than women, even though suicide rates are higher amongst men than women, according to the national suicide prevention lifeline.

Globally, studies show that men generally find it more difficult to open up about mental health struggles than women. The cultural stigma around mental health is a leading reason men shy away from seeking mental health assistance or speaking about their mental health issues. Described as the silent epidemic, mental health illness amongst men has become a growing concern amongst health experts, begging for attention.

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Why Do Men Find It Hard to Talk About Mental Health?

Gender stereotypes and societal expectations.

Traditional gender roles and societal expectations about men are risk factors that make it harder for men to discuss their mental health or seek support. Most societies support the notion that ‘big boys don’t cry’. They expect men to be strong, unemotional father figures whose work is to provide, dominate and control the family unit. While these stereotypes are not inherently bad, boys grow up with the idea that being emotional or needing mental health support is a sign of weakness.

Men grow up believing they have to show strength and composure throughout their existence, no matter what life throws at them. This makes it hard for most men to accept when facing mental health challenges, much less seek professional support or intervention.

When men are not able to openly talk about their feelings and emotions, they are unable to recognize signs of mental health issues, making it even harder to reach out for support.

When faced with challenges that affect their mental health, men are more likely to take on harmful coping mechanisms like drug abuse, alcohol use, and other dangerous behaviors to numb the pain.

Nine in ten people with mental health problems believe that discriminations and stigma are the main reasons they fear seeking mental health care. Most men fear seeking mental health support because of the stigma and discrimination they are likely to receive from society, family members, and other loved ones.

The stigma is due mainly to the misinformation and ignorance around mental health and mental illness. Historically, mental health patients were assumed to be unpredictable, dangerous, and violent, which changed how the people around them associated with them. Most men fear talking about their mental health issues for fear of being treated differently.

Because of stigma, people living with mental illness are isolated and excluded in life. It makes it harder for them to get employment, make friends, or live a normal life. Because of fear of this alienation, most men prefer to ignore mental health issues and remain silent, denying themselves the much-needed mental health treatment and support.

Mental Health Issues Common Amongst Men

This is one of the most common mental health issues amongst men. According to different mental health initiatives statistics, 5.5% of young men live with depression. Since male depression is diagnosed less often than depression in women, most signs of depression in men go unnoticed since their symptoms of depression are less pronounced than the major depressive disorder.

This is also a common mental health issue amongst men. Common anxiety in men disorders include panic disorder, OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), GAD (generalized anxiety disorder), phobias, and social anxiety.

Anxiety in men increases the chances of developing ADHD and substance use disorder.  

Substance use disorder

Men’s mental health statistics show that young adult males are more likely to abuse drugs compared to women in the same age group. Men self-medicate with a wide range of drugs as coping strategies for different issues, including hallucinogens, marijuana, and prescription medication. Also, men are more likely to develop alcohol abuse than women, accounting for higher alcohol overuse-related hospitalizations and deaths.

Substance use disorder is often overlooked as a mental health issue because male substance use is more socially acceptable and even seen as a masculine trait. This places men at a higher risk of becoming dependent on substances.

PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)

PTSD is also a common mental health condition amongst men. At least 60% of men go through at least one traumatic experience in their lives related to physical assault, accidents, witnessing injury or death, and combat. These experiences can have long-term effects on the brain, affecting a person’s mental health.

PTSD symptoms can interfere with a man’s day-to-day quality of life. Yet, most men with the condition go undiagnosed because they prefer to suffer in silence or overlook behavioral or physical issues exhibiting symptoms.  

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by highs and lows in mood and activity level. In men, the condition typically manifests between the age of 15 and 24, affecting up to 2.6% of the US male population. This condition can often go undiagnosed amongst men since most signs in the manic phase can be overlooked as normal male behavior. Also, men experience less frequent manic episode cycling, making it a more complex condition to pinpoint in men.

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Warning Signs of Men’s Mental Health Issues

Since men find it hard to openly express their emotional struggles like feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or frustration, mental health issues can manifest in different symptoms that affect their well-being, including:

  • Physical symptoms, such as chronic headaches or stomachaches
  • Restlessness and difficulty focusing
  • Sleep deprivations or excessive sleeping
  • Mood changes
  • Eating disorder
  • Alcohol use or drug abuse
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Aggression and violence
  • Appetite and weight changes
  • High-risk activities
  • Substance abuse
  • Obsessive thinking

Tips on How to Improve Men’s Mental Health

Men are mentally wired to suppress their emotions and avoid discussing issues that cause them pain. The first step towards better mental health as a man is to learn to open up about your feelings and emotions. Men need to know that it is ok to open up and share their feelings. You can start by opening up to people closest to you as you learn how to ask for health and mental health support.

Reframe your mind about mental health

As a man, you need to start acknowledging that mental health is critical to your overall health. This allows you to extend yourself some grace when faced with mental health challenges and make it easier for you to seek help. Your mental health requires as much care and attention as you give your physical health.

Seek therapy

One of the most critical aspects of addressing mental health is accepting seeing a professional mental healthcare provider. Seeking professional help is an ideal way of getting a proper diagnosis of your mental health status and learning better ways to cope with mental health conditions. A mental health professional will also help you through the process of getting to understand yourself and learning to live with a diagnosis.

Join an all-men mental health support group

One of the reasons men shy away from support groups and forums is the idea of sharing their innermost feelings in the presence of women or fellow men for fear of being judged or misunderstood. Whether you live with a mental health issue like anxiety or depression or simply need a safe space to vent about day-to-day life stresses, or even get information on how to lose belly fat for men , joining a men-only support group may be one of the best things to do.

Men-only mental health support groups like Men’s Group offer a safe space where men can go and share their thoughts, feelings, and struggles with other men who understand. Being part of a support group gives men access to mental health services and tools needed to lead healthier, happier lives.

More About Men’s Group

Men’s Group is an online support group for men. If you are a man in need of emotional support, being part of a men-only community is one of the best ways to ensure you get personalized help for your needs.

This community of men is dedicated to supporting each other through life’s challenges and changes. Being part of a men-only support group ensures you get a free space to share, vent, and learn about men’s mental health in a safe space without fear of judgment or being misunderstood.

Meetings take place online, making them accessible from anywhere, which has been of great help to most men during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Bottom Line

Mental health can be hard to think about or even talk about, especially among men. Learning more about men’s mental health is an important step toward embracing mental health as part of their overall health. The information shared in this article can help men better understand their mental health and seek support without feeling judged or emasculated. Also, joining a support group like Men’s Group makes it easier for men to open up and get much-needed mental health support.

Facing A Challenge And Feel Like Nobody Can Relate?

We’ll get you connected to guys going through similar things. Enter your email below to get access to our confidential MensGroup discussion forum and online men’s groups on Zoom:

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Men and Mental Health

Why is men’s mental health important.

Mental disorders affect men and women. The prevalence of several mental disorders is lower in men than in women. However, other disorders are diagnosed at comparable rates for men and women or at higher rates for men, like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) . Men are also more likely to die by suicide than women, according to the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  .

Certain symptoms may also be more common in men than women, and the course of illness can be affected by a person’s sex. Researchers are only now beginning to tease apart the various biological and psychosocial factors that may impact mental health.

Men are less likely to have received mental health treatment than women in the past year. Recognizing the signs that you or someone you love may have a mental disorder is the first step toward getting treatment. The earlier that treatment begins, the more effective it can be.

Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Learn more about taking care of your mental health.

What are the symptoms of mental disorders in men?

Men and women can develop most of the same mental disorders and conditions, but they may experience different symptoms. Some common symptoms include:

  • 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
  • Misuse of alcohol, drugs, or both
  • Persistent sadness or feelings of hopelessness
  • Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions
  • Engaging in high-risk activities
  • Aches, headaches, or digestive problems without a clear cause
  • Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior
  • Thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work, family, or social life
  • Unusual thinking or behaviors that concern other people
  • Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts

Mental disorders can be treated : If you are unsure where to go for help, ask a health care provider or visit NIMH’s Help for Mental Illnesses webpage. Communicating well with a health care provider can improve your care and help you both make good choices about your health. Read about tips to help prepare and get the most out of your visit . For additional resources, including questions to ask a health care provider, visit the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality  .

If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline   at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org   . In life-threatening situations, call 911 .

Health topics and resources for men

Featured health topics.

  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Borderline Personality Disorder
  • Eating Disorders
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorders
  • Suicide Prevention

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Autism Spectrum Disorder

Federal Resources

  • Brother, You’re on My Mind  : This National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities initiative uses a variety of activities to raise awareness of the mental health challenges associated with depression and stress that affect African American men and their families.
  • Men’s Health   : The National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus offers resources on the unique health issues men experience ( en español  ).
  • Preventing Suicide Among Men in the Middle Years: Recommendations for Suicide Prevention Programs   : The Suicide Prevention Resource Center created this resource to help state and community suicide prevention programs design and implement projects to prevent suicide among men in the middle years (ages 35–64).
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)   : SAMHSA offers publications addressing the specific needs of men.
  • Why We Need to Talk About Men’s Mental Health   : This blog post from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health discusses the importance of supporting men’s mental health.

Featured videos

Doctor Elizabeth Necka, from NIA, and Doctor Jovier Evans, from NIMH, video headshots while answering questions

Mental Health and Older Adults Facebook Live Q&A

Learn about mental and emotional wellness in later life, signs and symptoms of depression, and ways to maintain and improve mental health.

NIH Experts Discuss the Intersection of Suicide and Substance Use

NIH Experts Discuss the Intersection of Suicide and Substance Use

Learn about common risk factors, populations at elevated risk, suicides by drug overdose, treatments, prevention, and resources for finding help.

screenshot from Suicide Prevention Resource Center video Men in the Middle Years

Men in the Middle Years  

This video from the Suicide Prevention Resource Center spotlights men between the ages of 35−64, a group whose suicide rate is more than double the national average.

Health hotlines

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline   : The Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. Call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Support is also available via live chat   . Para ayuda en español, llame al 988.
  • Disaster Distress Hotline   : This helpline from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides immediate crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. The helpline is free, multilingual, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 .
  • Veterans Crisis Line   : This helpline is a free, confidential resource for veterans of all ages and circumstances. Call 988 then press 1; text 838255 ; or chat online   to connect with 24/7 support.
  • NIH Health Info Lines  

Why should men participate in clinical trials?

Clinical trials are research studies that look at new ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. The goal of clinical trials is to determine if a new test or treatment works and is safe. Although people may benefit from being part of a clinical trial, they should be aware that the primary purpose of a clinical trial is to gain new scientific knowledge so that others may be better helped in the future.

Researchers at NIMH and around the country conduct many studies with patients and healthy volunteers. We have new and better treatment options today because of what clinical trials have uncovered.  Talk to a health care provider about clinical trials, their benefits and risks, and whether one is right for you.

To learn more or find a study, visit:

  • NIMH’s Clinical Trials webpage : Information about participating in clinical trials
  • Join a Study: Adults : List of studies being conducted on the NIH Campus in Bethesda, MD

Sex and gender can influence health in important ways. You can help scientists learn more about the differences and make it possible to draw conclusions that advance health for men and women. NIMH is committed to ensuring that men trying to decide whether to enroll in a clinical study get all the information they need to feel comfortable and make informed decisions.

Last Reviewed:  May 2023

Unless otherwise specified, the information on our website and in our publications is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please cite the National Institute of Mental Health as the source. Read our copyright policy to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content.

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How to Get More Men to Try Therapy

Mental health experts say that many American men are in crisis. One solution is to convince them that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

A cartoon cowboy lies back on his horse in a big city psychiatrist’s office, telling his problems to a therapist who is also on horseback.

By Dana G. Smith

Mental health experts have long known that while women have nearly twice the rate of depression diagnoses , men are much more likely to die by suicide, drug overdose and alcohol related deaths — sometimes referred to as deaths of despair. Nearly 80 percent of suicides are among men, with males over age 75 and those who work in traditionally blue collar jobs , such as mining, construction and agriculture, having the highest rates.

Despite men's higher risk of death related to mental illness, women are more likely to seek out help. In 2020, 15 percent of men reported receiving either psychotropic medications or therapy in the past year compared with 26 percent of women.

This disparity in care has left experts scrambling for ways to reach more men, particularly those most at risk and who might be reluctant to talk about their mental health. Research has found that men who exhibit traditional stereotypes of masculinity, such as stoicism and self-reliance, are even less likely to ask for help.

“We call some of them ‘ double jeopardy men ,’” said Sally Spencer-Thomas, president and co-founder of United Suicide Survivors International. “They’re men who have a number of risk factors and who are also least likely to seek help on their own.”

In response to this growing mental health crisis, the American Psychological Association (A.P.A.) released its first set of guidelines for practitioners working with men and boys in 2018.

“There is clearly growing recognition that we have to reframe mental health care and our approach to addressing the mental health needs of men,” wrote Arthur Evans Jr., the chief executive at A.P.A., in an email. “Early indications are that when we do this, men are willing to engage in addressing their mental health challenges.” For instance, he said, it helps to reframe therapy as an opportunity to become strong or well, rather than a treatment for mental illness.

Some therapists and public health campaigns have adopted this approach and are using other unconventional messaging in an attempt to appeal to hard-to-reach men. This might include using humor or leaning into some masculine stereotypes. (Think: fewer feelings, more sports analogies.) Experts hope that once these men are in the door, they’ll come to see that asking for help and going to therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Getting more men into therapy

Over the course of two years, Dr. Spencer-Thomas conducted interviews and focus groups with men who had survived suicide attempts about what might have helped them during their time of greatest need. She quickly learned that the standard communication around mental health was a turnoff for the men she spoke to.

“One of the things they said was, ‘You know that message you mental health people like to put out there, “If you’re depressed, seek help”? That misses us on both counts,’” Dr. Spencer-Thomas said.

For one thing, the double jeopardy men she interviewed did not consider themselves to be mentally unwell, so language about depression or mental illness didn’t resonate. Instead, they said the source of their problems was an overwhelming world — stressful jobs, financial concerns, conflicts with their partner and worries about their kids.

The second issue was that these men had been conditioned to be the strong ones , the ones that other people lean on. So the idea of seeking help, especially for their minds, was a foreign and off-putting concept.

“I don’t want to say it’s harder for men, because everyone deals with their own struggles, but I think the stigma around it is that men don’t need to go to therapy,” said Rafael Gómez Jr., 22, who works at a software company in Los Angeles. Gómez started going to therapy after temporarily moving back home during the pandemic, something he initially hid from his parents.

Using the insights from her research, Dr. Spencer-Thomas partnered with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the branding agency Cactus in 2012 to develop a public health campaign, called Man Therapy , that they hoped would engage men who identify with more traditional concepts of masculinity.

Man Therapy, despite its name, is not intended to be a replacement for formal mental health care. It’s a website designed to educate, reduce stigma and encourage men to seek help in times of crisis. In addition to providing links to the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and a therapist finder tool, the website also offers a screening questionnaire to help men evaluate their mental state and self-help tips.

These resources are fairly standard for mental health websites; it’s Man Therapy’s tone that is unique, using humor and masculine stereotypes to draw in men. Slogans splashed across the home page include, “It’s OK to cry, even when it’s not about sports” and “Feelings: they’re not just for the hippies.” A mustachioed fictional therapist, Rich Mahogany, who strongly resembles the “Parks and Recreation” character Ron Swanson, guides users through the site.

“Rather than trying to change hundreds of years of social norming for these men, we decided instead to try to meet men where they were,” said Jarrod Hindman, a co-founder of Man Therapy and currently chief operating officer at Sources of Strength, a youth suicide prevention program.

Man Therapy has developed numerous partnerships over the years to promote the site, including with government-funded health organizations in 15 states; professional groups in male-dominated industries, such as construction and transportation; and private mental health companies, including BetterHelp. Men might see advertisements for the site on billboards, on coasters in bars or even in bathrooms at sports arenas.

A recent evaluation of the campaign suggests that it is fairly effective. Men who visited Man Therapy, as compared to a more conventional suicide awareness and screening site, were more likely to take part in help-seeking behaviors, such as starting therapy, being seen by a primary care physician for mental health reasons or participating in a mental health support group.

Convincing them to stay

Many men go to therapy willingly and openly. But for those who are resistant to the idea, getting them into a professional’s office is only half the battle. Persuading them to talk can be another challenge.

John D’Agostini, 38, who runs a leadership program for young men near Minneapolis, tried going to several counselors throughout his 20s and early 30s, but he found the sessions very difficult. “It had nothing to do with them, it was me,” he said. “I didn’t have the skills and I didn’t have the humility.”

This type of resistance can be more common among men , said Mitch Abrams, a psychologist specializing in anger management who treats patients in New York and New Jersey. “They come in and they say, ‘I’m only here because my wife told me to.’”

To encourage these men to engage in the process, Dr. Abrams tries to help them see that although someone else might have initially recommended therapy, they wouldn’t be in his office if they hadn’t made the choice to be. “There are a lot of guys that know they want to be there, but they don’t feel that they’re allowed to say it because their pride is in the way,” he said.

Mr. D’Agostini finally made progress when he found a therapist he felt he could open up to. “I didn’t feel like I had to keep up appearances,” he said. “I could just really drop it and be really honest and vulnerable with another human being.”

Niall Geoghegan, a therapist based in Berkeley, Calif., said when he works with new male clients, he’s less likely to talk about emotions. “A lot of people bristle against that stereotypical, ‘How do you feel?’” he said. “That’s not always helpful for many people, but it’s specifically not helpful for a lot of men.”

Instead, Dr. Geoghegan will begin by asking about their sleep, appetite and motivation, which can be indicators of depression or anxiety.

As the therapy continues, Dr. Geoghegan said the men he sees are just as willing and able to go as deep as the women. Many men might say, “I’m not in touch with my feelings,” Dr. Geoghegan said, “but after a few sessions, they’d find things just pouring out.”

Another challenge facing not only men but anyone wanting to see a therapist is finding a local practitioner who’s taking new clients. Despite being located in the Bay Area, Dr. Geoghegan fields inquiries for teletherapy from men all over the country. He said that sometimes these men worry they’ll experience stigma if they’re seen seeking help locally, so teletherapy can be a more attractive option.

Changing concepts of masculinity

The point of initially playing into traditional ideas of masculinity is to get hard-to-reach men to start to question some of the gender norms that no longer serve them, Dr. Spencer-Thomas said.

Man Therapy’s ultimate goal, she said, is “to show these men that while those norms might work for you in some situations, they’re not working here” and then introduce a different approach.

Dr. Abrams has a similar objective. “What I try to do for men is I recalibrate their idea of what being tough is,” he said. “It’s not a sign of strength or toughness to avoid problems that are destroying your life. It’s a sign of toughness when you confront them.”

A previous version of this article misstated the name of the fictional character from “Parks and Recreation.” He is Ron Swanson, not Rick.

A previous version of this article misstated Jarrod Hindman’s title. He is the chief operating officer, not operator.

How we handle corrections

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Home / Mental Health / Understanding the issues surrounding depression in men

Understanding the issues surrounding depression in men

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how to deal with mental health as a man

Many factors in our society have trained men to hide their emotions and try to tough out any feelings of sadness. Unfortunately, that approach couldn’t be more unhealthy when it comes to male depression . It’s a serious medical condition and it’s important to learn the signs—and what actions to take—if you or someone you know exhibits symptoms.

What are the signs and symptoms of depression in males?

Depression signs and symptoms can differ in men and women. For example, men are more likely to use unhealthy coping strategies like working or drinking too much to mask more serious issues. It’s unclear why men and women experience depression differently, however, it likely involves factors like brain chemistry, hormones and life experiences.

Despite the differences in how males and females experience depression, there are some similarities. Both men and women with depression may:

  • Act irritable
  • Become isolated or withdrawn
  • Feel sad, hopeless or empty
  • Feel extremely tired
  • Have difficulty sleeping or sleep too much
  • Not get pleasure from activities usually enjoyed

Other behaviors in men that could be signs of depression but often go unrecognized include:

  • Escapist behavior, such as spending a lot of time at work or on sports
  • Physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive problems and pain
  • Problems with alcohol or drug use
  • Controlling, violent or abusive behavior
  • Irritability or inappropriate anger
  • Risky behavior, such as reckless driving

Many of these behaviors could be signs of other mental health issues or medical conditions, so it’s important to seek professional help to get the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Why male depression often goes undiagnosed

Men with depression frequently aren’t diagnosed for several reasons, including:

Failure to recognize depression

Feeling sad or emotional is a common sign of depression, however, for many men, that isn’t the primary symptom. For example, headaches, digestive problems, tiredness, irritability or long-term pain can all be signs of depression that go unseen.

Downplaying signs and symptoms

Most people don’t want to admit that they’re depressed, and they might not even recognize the impact of their symptoms. But ignoring, suppressing or masking depression with unhealthy behavior will only worsen the negative emotions.

Reluctance to discuss depression symptoms

Men often don’t think it’s manly to express feelings and emotions that are associated with depression, so they try to suppress them, which prevents discussions with family friends and mental health professionals.

Resisting mental health treatment

The stigma associated with getting help causes many men to avoid diagnosis or refuse treatment. Often, that fear is rooted in the concern that getting help could damage their career or cause their family and friends to lose respect for them.

Male depression and suicide

Although women attempt suicide more often than men, males are more likely to complete suicide. That’s because men:

  • Use methods such as guns that are more likely to cause death
  • May act more impulsively
  • Show fewer warning signs, such as talking about suicide

If you have suicidal thoughts

If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, get help right now:

  • Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
  • Call a suicide hotline. In the U.S., call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or use its webchat on 988lifeline.org/chat .

If you’re feeling suicidal, but you aren’t thinking of immediately hurting yourself, seek help:

  • Reach out to a close friend or loved one—even though it may be hard to talk about your feelings.
  • Contact a minister, spiritual leader or someone in your faith community.
  • Consider joining a men’s health group that deals with depression.
  • Call a suicide crisis center hotline.
  • Make an appointment with your doctor, other primary care provider or mental health professional.

Get help when you need it

Asking for help can be hard for men. But without treatment, depression is unlikely to go away, and it may get worse. Untreated depression can make you and the people close to you miserable. It can cause problems in every aspect of your life, including your health, career, relationships and personal safety.

Depression, even if it’s severe, usually improves with medications or psychological counseling (psychotherapy) or both. If you or someone close to you thinks you may be depressed, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. It’s a sign of strength to ask for advice or seek help when you need it.

Male depression and coping skills

Treatment, including psychotherapy, with a mental health professional can help you learn healthy coping skills. These may include:

Set realistic goals and prioritize tasks.

Seek out emotional support from a partner or family or friends. Learn strategies for making social connections so that you can get involved in social activities.

Learn ways to manage stress, such as meditation and mindfulness, and develop problem-solving skills.

Delay making important decisions, such as changing jobs, until your depression symptoms improve.

Engage in activities you typically enjoy, such as ball games, fishing or a hobby.

Try to stick to a regular schedule and make healthy lifestyle choices, including healthy eating and regular physical activity, to help promote better mental health.

Male depression is treatable

Male depression typically improves with treatment, and there are many effective options available. Getting help yourself or encouraging someone else to seek treatment could help avoid serious consequences. It might just become one of the best choices you’ll ever make.

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What is male depression?

Signs and symptoms of depression in men, triggers for depression in men, getting help for male depression, tip 1: seek social support, tip 2: support your health, tip 3: exercise for greater mental and physical health, tip 4: eat a healthy diet to improve how you feel, tip 5: challenge negative thinking, professional treatment for depression in men, how to help a man with depression, depression in men.

Feeling depressed isn’t a sign of weakness and you don’t have to tough it out. These tips can help you overcome depression and start feeling happier and more hopeful today.

how to deal with mental health as a man

As men, we like to think of ourselves as strong and in control of our emotions. When we feel hopeless or overwhelmed by despair we often deny it or try to cover it up. But depression is a common problem that affects many of us at some point in our lives, not a sign of emotional weakness or a failing of masculinity.

Depression impacts millions of men of all ages and backgrounds, as well as those who care about them—spouses, partners, friends, and family. Of course, it’s normal for anyone to feel down from time to time. Dips in mood are an ordinary reaction to losses, setbacks, and disappointments in life. However, male depression changes how you think, feel, and function in your daily life. It can interfere with your productivity at work or school and impact your relationships, sleep, diet, and overall enjoyment of life. Severe depression can be intense and unrelenting.

Unfortunately, depression in men often gets overlooked as many of us find it difficult to talk about our feelings. Instead, we tend to focus on the physical symptoms that often accompany male depression, such as back pain, headaches, difficulty sleeping, or sexual problems. This can result in the underlying depression going untreated, which can have serious consequences.

Men suffering from depression are four times more likely to take their own lives than women, so it’s vital to seek help with depression before feelings of despair become feelings of suicide. Talk honestly with a friend, loved one, or doctor about what’s going on in your mind as well as your body. Once correctly diagnosed, there is plenty you can do to successfully treat and manage male depression and prevent it from coming back.

Men tend to be less adept at recognizing symptoms of depression than women . A man is more likely to deny his feelings, hide them from himself and others, or try to mask them with other behaviors. And while men may experience classic symptoms of depression such as despondent mood, loss of interest in work or hobbies, weight and sleep disturbances, fatigue, and concentration problems, they are more likely than women to experience “stealth” depression symptoms such as anger, substance abuse , and agitation.

The three most commonly overlooked signs of depression in men are:

  • Physical pain. Sometimes depression in men shows up as physical symptoms—such as backache, frequent headaches, sleep problems, sexual dysfunction, or digestive disorders—that don't respond to normal treatment.
  • Anger. This could range from irritability, sensitivity to criticism, or a loss of your sense of humor to road rage, a short temper, or even violence. Some men become abusive or controlling.
  • Reckless behavior. A man suffering from depression may exhibit escapist or risky behavior such as pursuing dangerous sports, driving recklessly, or engaging in unsafe sex. You might drink too much, abuse drugs, or gamble compulsively.

How to know if you're depressed

If you identify with several of the following, you may be suffering from depression.

  • You feel hopeless and helpless
  • You've lost interest in friends, activities, and things you used to enjoy
  • You're much more irritable, short-tempered, or aggressive than usual
  • You're consuming more alcohol, engaging in reckless behavior, or self-medicating
  • You feel restless and agitated
  • Your sleep and appetite has changed
  • You can't concentrate or your productivity at work has declined
  • You can't control your negative thoughts

If you're feeling suicidal…

Problems don't seem temporary—they seem overwhelming and permanent. But if you reach out for help, you will feel better.

Read HelpGuide's Suicide Prevention articles or call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. at 988. For help outside the U.S., visit Befrienders Worldwide .

There's no single cause of depression in men. Biological, psychological, and social factors all play a part, as do lifestyle choices, relationships, and coping skills.

While any man can suffer from depression, there are some risk factors that make a man more vulnerable, such as:

  • Loneliness and lack of social support
  • Inability to effectively deal with stress
  • A history of alcohol or drug abuse
  • Early childhood trauma or abuse
  • Aging in isolation , with few social outlets

Depression and erectile dysfunction

Impotence or erectile dysfunction is not only a trigger of depression in men, it can also be a side effect of many antidepressant medications.

  • Men with sexual function problems are almost twice as likely to be depressed as those without.
  • Depression increases the risk of erectile dysfunction.
  • Many men are reluctant to acknowledge sexual problems, thinking it's a reflection on their manhood rather than a treatable problem caused by depression.
  • Treatment options such as generic Cialis (tadalafil ) or generic Viagra (sildenafil) may help to improve your sexual function problems.

Don't try to tough out depression on your own. It takes courage to seek help—from a loved one or a professional. Most men with depression respond well to self-help steps such as reaching out for social support, exercising, switching to a healthy diet, and making other lifestyle changes.

But don't expect your mood to improve instantly. You'll likely begin to feel a little better each day. Many men recovering from depression notice improvements in sleep patterns and appetite before improvements in their mood. But these self-help steps can have a powerful effect on how you think and feel, helping you to overcome the symptoms of depression and regain your enjoyment of life.

Speak to a Licensed Therapist

BetterHelp is an online therapy service that matches you to licensed, accredited therapists who can help with depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Take the assessment and get matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours.

Work commitments can often make it difficult for men to find time to maintain friendships, but the first step to tackling male depression is to find people you can really connect with, face-to-face. That doesn't mean simply trading jokes with a coworker or chatting about sports with the guy sitting next to you in a bar. It means finding someone you feel comfortable sharing your feelings with, someone who'll listen to you without judging you, or telling you how you should think or feel.

You may think that discussing your feelings isn't very macho, but whether you're aware of it or not, you're already communicating your feelings to those around you; you're just not using words. If you're short-tempered, drinking more than usual , or punching holes in the wall, those closest to you will know something's wrong. Choosing to talk about what you're going through, instead, can actually help you feel better.

Finding social support 

For many men—especially when you're suffering from depression—reaching out to others can seem overwhelming. But developing and maintaining close relationships are vital to helping you get through this tough time. If you don't feel that you have anyone to turn to, it's never too late to build new friendships and improve your support network.

How to reach out for depression support

Look for support from people who make you feel safe and cared for. The person you talk to doesn't have to be able to fix you; they just need to be a good listener-someone who'll listen attentively and compassionately without being distracted or judging you.

Make face-time a priority. Phone calls, social media , and texting are great ways to stay in touch, but they don't replace good old-fashioned in-person quality time. The simple act of talking to someone face to face about how you feel can play a big role in relieving depression and keeping it away.

Try to keep up with social activities even if you don't feel like it. Often when you're depressed, it feels more comfortable to retreat into your shell, but being around other people will make you feel less depressed.

Find ways to support others. It's nice to receive support, but research shows you get an even bigger mood boost from providing support yourself. So find ways-both big and small-to help others: volunteer , be a listening ear for a friend, do something nice for somebody.

Care for a pet. While nothing can replace the human connection, pets can bring joy and companionship into your life and help you feel less isolated. Caring for a pet can also get you outside of yourself and give you a sense of being needed-both powerful antidotes to depression.

Join a support group for depression. Being with others dealing with depression can go a long way in reducing your sense of isolation. You can also encourage each other, give and receive advice on how to cope, and share your experiences.

Invite someone to a ballgame, movie, or concert. There are plenty of other people who feel just as awkward about reaching out and making friends as you do. Be the one to break the ice.

Call or email an old buddy. Even if you've retreated from relationships that were once important to you, make the effort to reconnect.

Positive lifestyle changes can help lift depression and keep it from coming back.

Aim for eight hours of sleep. Depression typically involves sleep problems ; whether you're sleeping too little or too much, your mood suffers. Get on a better sleep schedule by learning healthy sleep habits.

Keep stress in check. Not only does stress prolong and worsen depression, but it can also trigger it. Figure out all the things in your life that stress you out, such as work overload, money problems , or unsupportive relationships, and find ways to relieve the pressure and regain control .

Practice relaxation techniques. A daily relaxation practice can help relieve symptoms of depression, reduce stress, and boost feelings of joy and well-being. Try yoga, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation .

Spend time in sunlight. Getting outside during daylight hours and exposing yourself to the sun can help boost serotonin levels and improve your mood. Take a walk, have your coffee outside, do some yard work, or double up on the benefits by exercising outdoors. If you live somewhere with little winter sunshine, try using a light therapy box.

Develop a “wellness toolbox” to deal with depression

Come up with a list of things that you can do for a quick mood boost. The more “tools” for coping with depression, the better. Try and implement a few of these ideas each day, even if you're feeling good.

  • Spend some time in nature.
  • List what you like about yourself.
  • Read a good book.
  • Watch a funny movie or TV show.
  • Take a long, hot shower.
  • Take care of a few small tasks.
  • Play with a pet.
  • Talk to friends or family face-to-face.
  • Listen to music.
  • Do something spontaneous.

When you're depressed, just getting out of bed can seem like a daunting task, let alone working out. But exercise is a powerful depression fighter —and one of the most important tools in your recovery arsenal. Research shows that regular exercise can be as effective as medication for relieving depression symptoms. It also helps prevent relapse once you're well.

To get the most benefit, aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This doesn't have to be all at once-and it's okay to start small. A 10-minute walk can improve your mood for two hours.

Exercise is something you can do right now to boost your mood

Your fatigue will improve if you stick with it. Starting to exercise can be difficult when you're depressed and feeling exhausted. But research shows that your energy levels will improve if you keep with it. Exercise will help you to feel energized and less fatigued, not more.

Find exercises that are continuous and rhythmic. The most benefits for depression come from rhythmic exercise—such as walking , weight training, swimming, or martial arts—where you move both your arms and legs.

Add a mindfulness element, especially if your depression is rooted in unresolved trauma or fed by obsessive, negative thoughts. Focus on how your body feels as you move—such as the sensation of your feet hitting the ground, or the feeling of the wind on your skin, or the rhythm of your breathing.

Pair up with an exercise partner. Not only does working out with others enable you to spend time socializing, it can also help to keep you motivated. Try joining a running club, seeking out tennis partners, or enrolling in a soccer or volleyball league.

Take a dog for a walk. If don't own a dog, you can volunteer to walk homeless dogs for an animal shelter or rescue group. You'll not only be helping yourself but also be helping to socialize and exercise the dogs, making them more adoptable.

What you eat has a direct impact on the way you feel.

Minimize sugar and refined carbs. You may crave sugary snacks, baked goods, or comfort foods such as pasta or French fries, but these “feel-good” foods quickly lead to a crash in mood and energy .

Reduce your intake of foods that can adversely affect your mood, such as caffeine, alcohol , trans fats, and foods with high levels of chemical preservatives or hormones.

Eat more Omega-3 fatty acids to give your mood a boost. The best sources are fatty fish (salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies, sardines), seaweed, flaxseed, and walnuts.

Try foods rich in mood-enhancing nutrients, such as bananas (magnesium to decrease anxiety, vitamin B6 to promote alertness, tryptophan to boost feel-good serotonin levels) and spinach (magnesium, folate to reduce agitation and improve sleep).

Avoid deficiencies in B vitamins which can trigger depression. Eat more citrus fruit, leafy greens, beans, chicken, and eggs.

Do you feel like you're powerless or weak? That bad things happen and there's not much you can do about it? That your situation is hopeless? Depression puts a negative spin on everything, including the way you see yourself and your expectations for the future.

When these types of thoughts overwhelm you, it's important to remember that this is a symptom of your depression and these irrational, pessimistic attitudes—known as cognitive distortions—aren't realistic. When you really examine them they don't hold up. But even so, they can be tough to give up.

You can't break out of this pessimistic mind frame by telling yourself to “just think positive.” Often, it's part of a lifelong pattern of thinking that's become so automatic you're not even completely aware of it. Rather, the trick is to identify the type of negative thoughts that are fueling your depression, and replace them with a more balanced way of thinking.

Negative, unrealistic ways of thinking that fuel male depression

All-or-nothing thinking. Looking at things in black-or-white categories, with no middle ground (“If I fall short of perfection, I'm a total failure.”)

Overgeneralization. Generalizing from a single negative experience, expecting it to hold true forever (“I can't do anything right.”)

The mental filter. Ignoring positive events and focusing on the negative. Noticing the one thing that went wrong, rather than all the things that went right.

Diminishing the positive. Coming up with reasons why positive events don't count (“She said she had a good time on our date, but I think she was just being nice.”)

Jumping to conclusions. Making negative interpretations without actual evidence. You act like a mind reader (“She must think I'm pathetic”) or a fortune teller (“I'll be stuck in this dead-end job forever.”)

Emotional reasoning. Believing that the way you feel reflects reality (“I feel like such a loser. I really am no good!”)

‘Shoulds' and ‘should-nots.' Holding yourself to a strict list of what you should and shouldn't do, and beating yourself up if you don't live up to your rules.

Labeling. Classifying yourself based on mistakes and perceived shortcomings (“I'm a failure; an idiot; a loser.”)

Put your thoughts on the witness stand

Once you identify the destructive thoughts patterns that contribute to your depression, you can start to challenge them with questions such as:

  • “What's the evidence that this thought is true? Not true?”
  • “What would I tell a friend who had this thought?”
  • “Is there another way of looking at the situation or an alternate explanation?”
  • “How might I look at this situation if I didn't have depression?”

As you cross-examine your negative thoughts, you may be surprised at how quickly they crumble. In the process, you'll develop a more balanced perspective and help to relieve your depression.

If support from family and friends and positive lifestyle changes aren't enough, seek help from a mental health professional. Be open about how you're feeling as well as your physical symptoms. Treatments for depression in men include:

Therapy. You may feel that talking to a stranger about your problems is ‘unmanly,' or that therapy carries with it a victim status. However, if therapy is available to you, it can often bring a swift sense of relief, even to the most skeptical male.

Medication. Antidepressant medication can help relieve some symptoms of depression, but it doesn't cure the underlying problem and is rarely a long-term solution. Medication also comes with side effects. Even if you decide that medication is right for you, always pursue self-help steps as well. Therapy and lifestyle changes can address the underlying causes of your depression to prevent it returning when you’re able to come off antidepressants.  

It often takes a wife, partner, or other family member to recognize a man's symptoms of depression. Even if a man suspects he's depressed, he may be ashamed that he's unable to cope on his own and only seek help when pressured to do so by a loved one.

Talking to a man about depression

Many men don't exhibit typical depressive symptoms such as a despondent mood, so you may want to avoid using the word “depression” and try describing his behavior as “stressed” or “overly tired.” It could help him to open up.

Point out how his behavior has changed, without being critical. For example, “You always seem get stomach pains before work,” or “You haven't played racquetball for months.”

Suggest a general check-up with a physician. He may be less resistant to seeing a family doctor than a mental health specialist at first. The doctor can rule out medical causes of depression and then make a referral.

Offer to accompany him on the first visit with a doctor or mental health specialist. Some men are resistant to talking about their feelings, so try to remove roadblocks to him seeking help.

Encourage him to make a list of symptoms to discuss. Help him focus on his feelings as well as physical ailments, and to be honest about his use of alcohol and drugs.

How to support a man with depression

Engage him in conversation and listen without judgement. Don't disparage any of the feelings he expresses, but do point out realities and offer hope.

Take any remarks about suicide seriously. In the U.S., call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or find a suicide helpline in another country at Befrienders Worldwide .

Invite him for social activities , whether it's simply a walk together or lunch with friends. If your invitation is refused, keep trying.

Encourage him to participate in activities that once gave him pleasure, such as hobbies, sports, or cultural activities. But don't push him to undertake too much too soon.

Don't tell him to ‘just snap out of it.' Instead, reassure him that, with time and support, he will start to feel better.

Monitor whether he is taking prescribed medication or attending therapy. If he's prescribed antidepressants, encourage him to follow orders about the use of alcohol.

Remember, you can't “fix” someone else's depression. You're not to blame for your loved one's depression or responsible for his happiness. While your support can be crucial to his recovery, ultimately, it's in his hands.

Depression support, suicide prevention help

Depression support.

Find  DBSA Chapters/Support Groups  or call the  NAMI Helpline  for support and referrals at 1-800-950-6264

Find  Depression support groups  in-person and online or call the  Mind Infoline  at 0300 123 3393

Call the  SANE Help Centre  at 1800 18 7263

Call  Mood Disorders Society of Canada  at 519-824-5565

Call the Vandrevala Foundation  Helpline (India)  at 1860 2662 345 or 1800 2333 330

Suicide prevention help

Call  988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline  at 988

Call  Samaritans UK  at 116 123

Call  Lifeline Australia  at 13 11 14

Visit  IASP  or  Suicide.org  to find a helpline near you

More Information

  • Male depression: Understanding the issues - Signs and symptoms of depression in men and why male depression tends to go undiagnosed. (Mayo Clinic)
  • Men and Depression - Booklet about depression in men: how it looks, how it feels, getting help, and getting better. (National Institute of Mental Health)
  • (VIDEO) Men and depression: Getting the right treatment - Harvard Health Publishing video exploring how men display symptoms of depression differently and what treatment options are most useful. (YouTube)
  • Oliffe, J. L., Rossnagel, E., Seidler, Z. E., Kealy, D., Ogrodniczuk, J. S., & Rice, S. M. (2019). Men’s Depression and Suicide. Current Psychiatry Reports, 21(10), 103. Link
  • Proudfoot, J., Fogarty, A. S., McTigue, I., Nathan, S., Whittle, E. L., Christensen, H., Player, M. J., Hadzi-Pavlovic, D., & Wilhelm, K. (2015). Positive strategies men regularly use to prevent and manage depression: A national survey of Australian men. BMC Public Health, 15(1), 1135. Link
  • Martin, L. A., Neighbors, H. W., & Griffith, D. M. (2013). The Experience of Symptoms of Depression in Men vs Women: Analysis of the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. JAMA Psychiatry, 70(10), 1100. Link
  • Depressive Disorders. (2013). In Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders . American Psychiatric Association. Link

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Are there mental health resources and support specifically for men?

Mental health affects us all. Men die by suicide at 4 times the rate that women do, but men are much less likely than women to receive mental health treatment. In addition to symptoms like worry, sadness, and loss of motivation, men often feel irritable, angry, and frustrated when dealing with poor mental health. Many men don’t receive the information and support they need to take care of their mental health, leading them to cope with things like substance use, aggression, and reckless behavior.  

Men are often socialized to have traits that are protective for their mental health -- things like resilience, drive, and self-sufficiency. Being honest about your pain, bonding with friends and family, and asking for professional help when you need it are also things that protect your mental health. However, these are all things that require vulnerability – something that is too often stigmatized for men. If you're experiencing poor mental health, don’t let stigma get in the way of asking for help. Use the resources below to learn about men’s mental health, start conversations about mental health in your community, and connect with mental health help when you need it. 

Learn About It 

Learn all about men’s mental health including common conditions, mental health symptoms, and things that can get in the way of asking for mental health help. 

  • NAMI Blog: 5 Myths that Prevent Men from Fighting Depression reviews 5 common myths that can keep men from getting the mental health help they need. 
  • Anxiety and Depression Association of America "Men’s Mental Health" provides an overview of men’s mental health and why it’s important. This webpage also lists personal stories and resources for getting help. 
  • Man Therapy offers a list of “Men’s Mental Health Topics” including anxiety, anger, grief, trauma, thriving, and more.  
  • Medical News Today "Men's mental health: What you need to know" details warning signs and risk factors for poor mental health, common mental health conditions in men, and what it looks like to get help for yourself or a loved one. 
  • Medical News Today “Mental health for transgender men: What to know” describes unique mental health challenges that transgender men experience, how drugs, hormones, and gender dysphoria relate to mental health, and steps for getting mental health help as a transgender man. 
  • The Skill Collective Men’s Health provides an overview of men’s mental health and well-being, discusses men’s attitudes toward health, outlines steps that can be taken to improve men’s physical and mental health, and offers free men’s mental health resources for download. 

Talk About It 

Help fight mental health stigma by talking about your mental health challenges and encouraging other men seek help when they need it. 

Men’s Stories 

  • NAMI Blog: Engaging Your Community in the Mental Health Conversation reflects on childhood experiences that affected the author’s mental health and emphasizes the importance of starting community conversations about men’s mental health. 
  • NAMI Blog: How Depression Made Me a Man the author discusses how his journey with depression helped to transform his understanding of what it means to be a man. 
  • NAMI Blog: The Mental Health of the Modern Dad considers how changing parenting norms have influenced dads’ mental health, explores the impact of paternal mental health on families, and explains barriers to men's mental health care. 
  • NAMI Blog: What it Means to Be a Man NAMI CEO Dan Gillison talks about the mental health challenges men experience and encourages readers to prioritize wellness, find strength in vulnerability, and ask for mental health help when they need it. 
  • The Mighty “10 Stories about Men’s Mental Health You Really Need to Read” highlights the lived experience of 10 men as they recount their mental health journeys and share what they have learned.  

Support & Discussion Groups

  • NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Participants gain insight from hearing the challenges and successes of others, and the groups are led by trained leaders who've been there. Some local NAMI affiliates host Connection Recovery Support Groups specifically for men or men of color. Contact your local NAMI or visit their website to inquire about men’s support group offerings. 
  • Black Men Heal Kings Corner is a virtual weekly meetup group that discusses different topics applicable to men’s mental health issues or struggles. This group is open to men all over the country and internationally. The group is a safe space that promotes sharing, vulnerability, support, community, and brotherhood amongst participants. 
  • The ManKind Project is a non-profit organization that provides training, groups, and programs for men to form connections, receive support through hardships, and evolve into their best selves for their own well-being and the well-being of their communities. They provide free, confidential, online Men’s Groups throughout the country.  
  • Psychology Today’s support group locator offers a “Men’s Issues” filter. Use this filter to find men’s support groups in your area.  
  • Visible Man is a free men’s peer support community whose mission is to connect men in need and create a visible network of advocates. Visible man hosts a podcast and discord channel to promote important conversations about men’s well-being. 
  • “Hispanic men’s support groups near [city, state]” 
  • “Muslim men’s support groups near [city, state]” 
  • “LGBTQ+ men’s support groups near [city, state]” 

Talking About Mental Health

  • NAMI Webpage: Disclosing To Others outlines reasons to talk to others about your mental health, suggestions for talking about it in personal relationships and at work, and steps for how and what to talk about when discussing your mental health with others. 
  • HeadsUpGuys “Talk To A Friend” webpage provides a step-by-step guide to asking for help and includes helpful prompts for getting the conversation started. 

Ask For Help 

If you’re not feeling like yourself lately, and you’re experiencing symptoms like aggression, irritability, mood changes, sleep and appetite changes, sadness, numbness, or suicidal thoughts, it’s time to ask for some help. Use the resources below to connect with a mental health professional, substance use treatment, or crisis services in your area. 

  • NAMI HelpLine Knowledge Article: I need to see a Psychiatrist/Therapist. How can I find one? contains information on finding a mental health treatment provider that’s right for you depending on your preferences and insurance status. 
  • NAMI Knowledge Article: How can I get help/support for substance use disorder? contains resources for finding substance use disorder treatment. 
  • NAMI Knowledge Article: I'm having suicidal thoughts and need help. contains vital resources for connecting to mental health crisis support when you need it. 
  • Black Men Heal is a non-profit organization that centers on the mental health needs of Black men by pairing them with therapists of color who can attend to their unique cultural experiences. The organization offers up to 8 free therapy sessions to those who apply. 
  • Man Therapy offers a Telehealth Connecter and National Resources Hub for men to get connected with the right mental health help for their needs. The website also contains a “Worried About Someone” section with great information on how to support the men in your life. 
  • Psychology Today’s “Find a Therapist” tool offers a “Men’s Issues” filter. Use this filter to find therapists who are skilled at providing therapy specific to men’s mental health challenges. 

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How Can Men Fight the Stigma of Dealing With Mental Health Problems?

One program is investigating if humor, physical activity and masculine messaging can encourage men to seek help.

Can Men Fight the Mental Health Stigma?

There's an old truism that men take better care of their cars than they do of their own health. Men are notoriously reluctant to ask for any kind of help, and that is especially true when it comes to mental health . Though the stigma of mental illness has certainly been lessened over the past several years, it remains stubbornly strong among men, who are typically averse to admitting to any problem and convinced they can "handle" anything themselves.

7 Things You Should Never Say to Someone With Depression (and What to Say Instead)

David Levine Aug. 18, 2017

A man and woman talk.

But an interesting program in Michigan is looking at ways to break through those obstacles and get men to seek professional help. Healthy Men Michigan is designed specifically to promote mental health and well-being among working-aged men who are living in that state, in part because suicide is the leading cause of injury death among men in Michigan. The program offers free online screening and referral services for a number of mental health issues, including depression , anxiety, anger management and thoughts of suicide, and access to local treatment options.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is funding the University of Maryland-Baltimore School of Social Work to evaluate the program. The research team is led by Jodi Jacobson Frey, an associate professor. "Men are at the highest risk for suicide death, and also typically the hardest to engage in traditional mental health services," Frey says. "When they do engage, they often don't stay engaged, with medication or therapy. There are a lot of barriers to men getting treatment."

[Read: How Do I Know If I Have Depression? ]

Barriers Specific to Men

"Historically, men have been viewed as the strong ones who take care of the family and protect the children from harm," says Dr. David Mischoulon, a professor of psychiatry at Harvard University and director of the Depression Clinical Research Program at Massachusetts General Hospital . "There are certain societal expectations on men that they have to be strong and effective. It is a lot harder for man to deal with any illness, because they can't play the role society expects of them." It is even worse with psychiatric conditions, Mischoulon says. "There is still a belief that they are signs of personal weakness. Men can more easily deal with high blood pressure, which won't have the same degree of sympathy as with a mental illness." Men are raised not to think or talk about emotional problems , Frey says. "They push them down, shy away from therapy. There is a stigma that seeking help is not viewed as masculine."

Her program, interestingly, is finding that the problem may be, in part, rooted in how treatment is presented. "We are finding in Healthy Men Michigan, and other programs, that men want to take a more active role in their health, but talk therapy is not necessarily what they are looking for. What works a bit better are nontraditional therapies."

For example, Frey says that men like to be active, so linking physical activity with mental health may be a better option. To that end, Healthy Men Michigan has partnered with Eric Hipple, a former quarterback for the Detroit Lions who has depression and survived a suicide attempt, to promote mental health care. "One participant wrote to us that the program reminded him of traditional mental health resources, but he engaged more in fishing, which he had let go, and was a real stress reliever for him," Frey says. "It was a reminder to him to engage in his hobbies again to deal with his depression. It's a broader, more holistic view of mental health well-being."

[See: Am I Just Sad – or Actually Depressed? ]

Another way to encourage men to take action is with humor. The program's 20-point online assessment, Frey says, "takes a humorous approach to suicide prevention, which sounds like an oxymoron but is based on focus groups showing us that men wanted something fun, humorous and action-based." The assessment can be accessed at several websites, including one called mantherapy.org . The site is overseen by a fictitious doctor, a Ron Swanson lookalike called Dr. Rich Mahogany, and features the tagline, "That funny feeling inside may not be burrito-related."

"He talks to you online and can be rude and crude at times. But he is also very serious," Frey says of Dr. Mahogany. If someone's test scores reveal a potential risk, the "doctor" responds quickly. "He says, if a fake doctor is concerned, maybe you should speak to a professional, and includes links to prevention hotlines," Frey says.

Signs of Depression: Symptoms to Watch

Christine Comizio and Michael O. Schroeder Jan. 18, 2024

Frustrated sad girlfriend sit on bed think of relationship problems

Male-Specific Symptoms and Causes

The screenings are designed to look for male-specific symptoms as well. "With men, depression can be experienced as irritability and anger, so we built in anger screenings," Frey says. "We typically think of depression as 'down in the dumps,' or 'the blues,' but that's not necessarily how men experience it. We have to expand our definition a bit when talking about men and depression." The causes of depression also need to expand to include job loss, housing issues and substance use. "A big piece for men is job and financial problems. That all needs to be examined," she says. The program has also switched messaging outlets, from social media to employers and community partners in their neighborhoods. "That is critical to connect to men," Frey says.

Through January, the program had screened about 1,500 men, with almost 40 percent at risk for suicide . "That is a very high number. That's telling me we're reaching men who need it most," Frey says. Her study runs through August 2018. She hopes to learn what messaging works, what encourages men to get treatment and what the barriers are to get them to engage in actions – whether it is traditional therapy, hobbies or sports – that increase social support and decrease isolation. "Ultimately, we want to learn what reduces the risk of suicide," she says. "We are directly measuring that."

[Read: Depression Risk: How It Differs for Men and Women .]

Frey admits that those in mental health and social work tend to focus on children, women and older adults, "the quote-unquote vulnerable populations. Working-age men are not thought to be in that group, but they really are isolated a lot, especially when you take away their identity in things like jobs. We assume men will be OK, but it is important to look at this. It's something we have neglected for a long time," she says. Mischoulon agrees. Although, on the whole, more men are willing to seek help than in years past, "There are still a lot of men who could benefit from treatment," he says. "They shouldn't let stigma get in the way of getting treatment, which can make a difference in their lives."

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men's mental health tips

  • Men's mental health: 11 top tips

23 Nov 2022 • 3 min read

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  • Health Hub Home
  • Men's Health

Why is there an International Men’s Day?

  • Making a positive difference to the wellbeing of boys and men
  • Raising funds/awareness for charities that support the wellbeing of men and boys
  • Promoting positive conversations about men, masculinity and manhood
  • High male suicide rate – the rate of 16.8 deaths per 100,000 in 2019 was the highest recorded since 2000 4
  • The challenges faced by boys and men in education, including re-skilling and attainment
  • Men’s health, male cancers, shorter life expectancy and deaths in the workplace
  • How men are less likely to seek medical support 5
  • Challenges for the most marginalised boys and men in society, e.g. boy in the social care system, homeless men and the high rate of male deaths while in custody
  • Male victims of violence – including sexual violence
  • The challenges facing new fathers and separated fathers
  • Male victims and survivors of rape, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, forced marriage, domestic abuse, stalking, slavery and honour-based crimes
  • The negative stereotypes and portrayals of men, boys and fathers

When is International Men’s Day?

11 lifestyle tips for better male mental health, 1. explore, understand and choose to reject traditional gender roles and male societal expectations.

  • Needing to be seen as strong
  • Showing stoicism and a lack of emotion - ‘boys don’t cry’
  • Being dominant
  • Achieving control
  • Being the ‘breadwinner’ of their household

2. Get talking

3. be there for the men in your life, 4. focus on being yourself, not just ‘a man’, 5. learn how to ask for help, 6. avoid using alcohol and drugs to cope, 7. find an activity you enjoy, 8. get moving, 9. anger management.

  • Talking therapy and counselling
  • Anger management programmes
  • Help for violent and abusive behaviour

10. Get better sleep

11. eat well, the final word, sign up for exclusive offers.

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Vinita Mehta Ph.D., Ed.M.

The 8 Keys to Healing From Serious Mental Illness

Self-acceptance, self-fulfillment, finding meaning, and more..

Posted September 29, 2022 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

  • What Is Trauma?
  • Find a therapist to heal from trauma
  • Coping responses such as dissociation can be double-edged; they stunt the development of healthy emotion regulation over time.
  • Experiencing trauma often forestalls the development of a positive self-concept.
  • For some, having a mental illness can lead to determination to understand the root of those problems and explore past trauma.

What does the healing journey from serious mental illness involve?

This was the central question of a study led by Xiafei Wang, now of Syracuse University, and her collaborators. More specifically, they were interested in recovery journeys through the lens of trauma and post-traumatic growth . Since people with serious psychological conditions are more likely to have trauma histories in which they experience events that overwhelm their resources to cope, Wang and her team sought to explore the role of trauma and post- traumatic growth in triggering, developing, and healing from serious mental health conditions.

To pursue this exploration, the researchers began by recruiting participants who had been diagnosed with a serious mental illness, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder , and/or major depressive disorders; individuals who had been prescribed psychotropic medications but had been off of them for at least a year; individuals who met the criteria for recovery; and individuals with a trauma history.

From there, the investigators asked the participants to tell their “stories” about life before and after they were diagnosed, how they coped with the illness, what resources they used to recover, and their current mental health. The participants’ stories were then analyzed and coded.

The results were striking. The investigators found eight components that participants cited as part of their healing journey. The findings of the study are outlined below.

1. Affect dysregulation.

The participants reported that trauma made affect regulation difficult. In response, many used repression and dissociation as survival strategies to cope with their painful feelings. However, this was a double-edged sword, because this approach also stunted the development of healthy emotion regulation over time.

One participant shared: "All my belief systems and my perceptions had become very fluid. It was so intense, and I couldn’t get to sleep. All of my repressed stuff from childhood and earlier in my life just started flooding up into my consciousness, and then I just felt really overwhelmed."

2. Distorted self and other concepts; relationship difficulties.

Trauma also led to having distorted views of oneself and of others, including feeling unlovable and unworthy, feeling rejected, and having difficulties with trust and closeness in relationships.

A participant expressed: "Because of my own childhood, I had a hard time trusting anybody. I had good friends, and they did help. I was just careful what I disclosed to them. And I would take their help as much as I could, based on what I would actually share."

3. Meaninglessness.

Trauma can shatter the assumption of a meaningful world, with person-outcome contingencies (i.e., the belief that events don’t occur randomly, and that there is a connection between a person and what happens to them). For some participants, this lack of meaning led to feeling that they had no control, were powerless, didn't have a life purpose, and had a foreshortened view of the future.

4. Existential fears.

Some of the participants’ traumas were due to witnessing the death of family members. The experience led to the fear of “annihilation” and the impermanent nature of life. Bearing witness to death was also linked to self-harm and mood swings.

A participant reflected: “I had agitated depression just after the death of my mother because I’d had a fairly traumatic childhood and relationship with her."

5. Self-acceptance: embracing emotions and changing perceptions of symptoms.

Transformation for some participants began with seeing their symptoms in a new light—they were not as out of control, negative, or meaningless as they once believed. Rather, participants began to feel more control over their symptoms, which in turn cultivated self-empowerment.

how to deal with mental health as a man

6. Self-exploration: connecting with past trauma.

For some people in this study, having a mental illness was the turning point that led to their healing journeys, and their determination to understand the root of their mental health problems. While the struggle was painful, it ultimately led to an exploration of their traumas, and the symptoms to which they gave rise. But it was making the connection between the past trauma and their current mental health symptoms that allowed them to develop healthier coping and reintegrate their fractured selves.

7. Self-worth: redefining self-concept and self-other relationships.

Experiencing trauma often forestalled the development of a positive self-concept, leading to various psychological challenges. Yet some participants also developed a greater sense of self-worth, which was central to their recovery and transformation.

One participant expressed: "What did I lose? I lost my sense of self, my self-esteem , and my self-worth. What did I recover? Me. I recovered me—myself. The more I recovered myself, and the stronger I came, the more I realized that the answers that everybody seeks are within us."

8. Self-fulfillment: serving others, community, and humanity.

Post-traumatic growth encouraged some participants to commit themselves to taking care of others, engaging in community service, and advocating for social justice. This transformation, the authors note, went beyond the healing of the individual. Rather, self-fulfillment was found in improving the lives of others and humanity at large.

Facebook /LinkedIn image: STEKLO/Shutterstock

Xiafei Wang, Mo Yee Lee & Nancy Yates (2018): From past trauma to post- traumatic growth: the role of self in participants with serious mental illnesses, Social Work in Mental Health, DOI: 10.1080/15332985.2018.1517401

Vinita Mehta Ph.D., Ed.M.

Vinita Mehta, Ph.D., Ed.M. , is a clinical psychologist and journalist. She was formerly the Development Producer and Science Editor of PBS's This Emotional Life .

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11 ways to be there for a partner struggling with their mental health.

Sarah Regan

It's difficult to see a partner struggling in a mental health slump, not to mention the strain it can put on your relationship. And in a long-term partnership, it's likely to occur at one point or another. It's estimated nearly half of Americans will experience a mental illness at some point in their lifetime, and with the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic today, the mental health effects can be felt by people everywhere. If you're wondering how to approach the situation, here are 11 ways to support a partner who's struggling:

Don't ignore it.

According to therapist and author of How To Be Alone Megan Bruneau, M.A. , "Oftentimes, we think ignoring something will make it go away, but ignoring a partner's mental health slump usually just leaves them feeling further isolated." It's important to start the dialogue, which brings us to our next point.

Start the conversation sensitively.

As certified couples' therapist Alicia Muñoz, LPC , previously told mbg, you want to approach the conversation delicately and sensitively. Open with phrases like, "'I've been thinking about you and wondering how you are,' 'I care about you and want to be here for you,' and 'Is there any special way I can support you right now that I might not be aware of?'"

No toxic positivity allowed.

Avoid being the ever-positive ray of sunshine when it comes to helping anyone with their mental health, particularly a partner. "Don't say things like 'Be positive!' or 'You have so much to be grateful for!'" Bruneau says. "This usually leads to them feeling shamed and misunderstood."

Resist the urge to give (unsolicited) advice.

We often feel compelled to offer suggestions or advice when people reach out to us, but this can feel patronizing, abrasive, and unhelpful to someone struggling with their mental health. As author and relationship expert Margaret Paul, Ph.D. , explains, unsolicited advice can often be interpreted as " directly ignoring their agency and attempting to control their decisions or feelings." No one wants that, especially when they're already likely feeling down about themselves.

Don't give ultimatums or threaten to leave.

Getting through a rough patch in a relationship isn't always easy—but neither is dealing with poor mental health. Be there for your partner as best you can, without giving ultimatums or threatening to leave them, Bruneau says. "Don't abandon them in their period of pain or imply that you'll consider leaving them if they don't 'cheer up,'" she adds.

Get clear on how they'd like to be supported.

Everyone is different, including how they'll handle their difficulties—and accept support. Get clear on what they need from you. It might simply be presence and quiet time or a daily walk you take together. As licensed marriage and family therapist Kim Egel, LMFT , previously explained to mbg, showing your partner respect and understanding as they're coping with mental health challenges will strengthen your connection: "Your relationship will remain in better standing as you support your partner while allowing them to work through their own individual depressive symptoms."

Validate them.

Whenever people are facing hardship of any kind, we want to be validated and to feel seen, heard, and loved regardless. "Validation lets them know there's nothing fundamentally wrong with them or their experience," Muñoz says, "even if they're feeling fear, shame, confusion, or anger." Use phrases like, "What you're saying and feeling are completely understandable," or "I can see your struggle and how much effort you're giving."

Foster empathy.

On top of validating their struggles, don't shy away from empathizing. Really feel what they tell you, and allow yourself to open up to their emotions. "Empathy shows them you understand—or at least are trying to understand—and it validates them," Bruneau says. This lets your partner know they're not only allowed to have the feelings they're having, but you're there to support them through it.

Get vulnerable.

Sometimes it can be hard to open up about mental health struggles , particularly with those closest to us. If your partner is resisting getting vulnerable, you can model it for them. Without "hijacking the conversation and making it about you," Bruneau previously explained to mbg, "self-disclosure can also be effective in helping someone open up." Let them know how you've been feeling, or if there's anything you're struggling with, and they may feel safer to open up to you.

Make plans for something enjoyable.

Sometimes, Bruneau notes, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can "tell us lies" about whether we'll enjoy activities, "when in actuality they usually help shift our moods," she says. "Suggest and plan activities with your partner that might shift their energy, but if they're really against doing them, don't force it." (Think simple, low-maintenance things like going for a hike or walk, playing a board game, going for massages, etc.)

Know your limits.

And lastly, it's important to know where the line falls between partner and therapist. "Know your limits and refer [them to someone]: You're not their therapist," Bruneau says. "Encourage them to find support, whether that's therapy, a coach, a support group, etc." This does not mean, of course, that you'll no longer be there to support your partner, but it's very important to both of you and the health of your relationship that you set boundaries, "so you're not becoming their sole emotional caretaker—which tends to breed resentment," she adds.

Struggling with mental health is never easy, but having a supportive partner at your side makes a world of difference. You don't have to be a therapist to be there for your partner, and hopefully in time, the slump won't last forever. Once you start approaching bluer skies ahead, the two of you will feel stronger than ever .

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Wealth of Geeks

14 Things Men Confess Drastically Improved Their Mental Health

Posted: December 7, 2023 | Last updated: December 7, 2023

<p><span>Men and mental health have not always coexisted harmoniously, especially with the stereotype that men have to keep their emotions bottled in. However, that adversarial nature is becoming a thing of the past, and men are looking for healthy ways to improve their mental well-being. These are our top 14 things that <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AskMen/comments/13fs1pj/what_is_something_that_drastically_improved_your/?sort=top%C2%A0" rel="nofollow noopener">men from an online forum</a> say drastically changed their mental health for the better!</span></p>

Men and mental health have not always coexisted harmoniously, especially with the stereotype that men have to keep their emotions bottled in. However, that adversarial nature is becoming a thing of the past, and men are looking for healthy ways to improve their mental well-being. These are our top 14 things that men from an online forum say drastically changed their mental health for the better!

<p>Tail docking is a practice to prevent rabies, injuries, and conform to breed standards and sanitary reasons. There is also the unproven theory that it makes dogs less aggressive. However, recently it has been practiced for such insignificant reasons as “aesthetics.” General animal lovers resent the tradition and label it unnecessary unless it is key to the dog's survival.</p>

1. Getting a Dog

What can alleviate a day’s stress more efficiently than a companion who loves you unconditionally? Man’s best friend doesn’t care what happened—whether or not you failed. They are a place of dependable love and joy. Ultimately, your dog offers you a chance to forget about your troubles, even if it’s just for a moment. Plus, it’s fun to watch them grow as an integral member of the family.

<p>Sometimes, letting the audience figure things out for themselves is okay. When horror movies over explain how the monster came to be, why the killer is the way they are, or the ins and outs of a demon's motives, it can feel condescending and even boring.</p>

2. Finding a Hobby

One user reported that finding something other than  going to work  to be passionate about is a great way to reduce stress. Painting, hiking, dancing, etc., are hobbies that can be therapeutic and offer an escape from the social demands and obligations that men have from day to day. A hobby is an outlet where you don’t have a job to do; it’s a space where you relax and have fun.

<p>According to Haley, Phoenix has been one of the most affordable cities in the country for a long time. He says that people will seek it out with the fall weather and outdoor space. Although the desert climate might not be for everyone, its sunny days and warm nights make it an appealing option for those coming from the cold of the north.</p> <p>The current cost of living in Phoenix is around $3,580.08 for a family of four.</p>

3. Learning To Put Things Into Perspective

Many guys mentioned that learning not to make a mountain out of a molehill has been the key to improved mental health. Sometimes the smallest things can nag you or even drive you crazy. However, you’d be surprised what taking a nice deep breath does for you. Every situation is not a crisis; the sooner these men realized it, the better they were for it. 

<p>Back in our day, we played outside until the street lights turned on, and our parents trusted us. Now, that's no longer the case, as one person points out: “Some parents track their kids 24/7. They have no real freedom.”</p> <p>Another points out how social media may be affecting kids, saying “There's a handful of pictures and videos from my school years…..whereas there are some 13-year-olds right now who've already been recorded and tagged online more times than I have.”</p>

4. Quitting Social Media

Social media can be great, but it can also be emotionally draining. It has the uncanny ability to bombard you with negativity, gossip, drama, and the like. Shutting social media down for a time has rejuvenated many forum members who said they were overwhelmed by all the platforms at their disposal.

Social media sites can make you feel inadequate, and stepping away does wonders for your mental health. It allows you to focus on what really matters in life.

<p><span>A clouded mind can get the best of all of us at times. Learning how to clear your mind to create room for peace is an underappreciated skill and one that more men are turning to for comfort. Positivity is the missing piece for a lot of people, and that's where meditation can help. </span></p> <p><span>Taking 20 minutes out of the day to embrace silence and reset your mind is cathartic and beneficial for one's mental health.</span></p>

5. Meditation

A clouded mind can get the best of all of us at times. Learning how to clear your mind to create room for peace is an underappreciated skill and one that more men are turning to for comfort. Positivity is the missing piece for a lot of people, and that’s where meditation can help.

Taking 20 minutes out of the day to embrace silence and reset your mind is cathartic and beneficial for one’s mental health.

<p>A bouncer at a nightclub carded a young-looking man to ensure he could legally enter the bar. But the ID the man pulled from his pocket just so happened to belong to the bouncer, who had lost it about three months prior. The young man didn't get into the club that night.</p>

6. Taking a Walk

It’s amazing how something as simple as  taking a walk  can help you. One individual stated that taking a daily walk—no matter the length of time—allows him to be alone with his thoughts and to clear his mind from all the troubles of the day. Sometimes you just need time to think and process your emotions about something. 

Taking in some fresh air is great, and you even benefit from burning extra calories as well.

<p>A couch in their bathroom, now this. Midol is a wonder drug. The secret? There’s an antihistamine in it! Breathe better, feel better, and get a kick of caffeine. Simply divine.</p>

7. Not Caring About Others’ Opinions

Men have expressed that putting too much stake in other people’s opinions has led to poor mental health. Conversely, not giving people so much emotional control over them has allowed them to make excellent progress in this sphere.  Once you cut out the opinions of others, you’re no longer impacted by the constant flow of what others think. 

<p>If you have a membership to a gym, use it. According to Healthline, the average cost of a gym membership is $58, though memberships can cost more in high-priced cities like New York City or Los Angeles. If your gym is closed due to COVID-19, consider canceling your membership and using that money to build up your savings.</p>

8. Exercise

Training is a great way to feel better about yourself. For starters, it gives you an outlet to channel any unresolved frustrations. Many of the guys commenting said that aside from powerlifting and cardio being a means to get out bottled emotions, the physical results that you earn from working out are icing on the cake. The better you look, the better you feel! 

<p>One of the most common gripes about TikTok is how it's ruining music. TikTokers take classic songs and warp them with edits and remixes until they're nauseating. TikTok even ruins modern songs because they play the same 10-second clip so much that they become annoying earworms.</p>

9. Listening to Music

Music has a universality about it when it comes to reducing stress. Since the beginning of time, music has been an excellent conduit for emotional expression and joy. Men have stated that having a go-to collection of songs helps when it comes to dealing with life’s challenges. Sometimes you can completely change your mood with a good tune.

<p>Here's a reality check: seeking professional help does not mean you are weak. We all face challenges in life, and sometimes, getting extra support from others is not bad. It's okay to contact therapists, counselors, or coaches who can provide guidance and assistance. In fact, it takes courage to acknowledge when we need help and take steps toward self-improvement.</p>

10. Attending Therapy

Seeking help is something that men are becoming more accustomed to with each passing day. The stigma associated with needing professional help is quickly shifting. Men are becoming increasingly comfortable with vulnerability, and they are seeing and reaping tangible benefits from therapy sessions.

<p>If a man is a victim of domestic violence, people don’t take it seriously. They can be in search of help and somewhere safe to go, and people will dismiss them.</p>

11. Separating From Toxic Individuals

Sometimes the company we keep is not good for us—this is a sentiment many users expressed. Toxic people and relationships can be detrimental to your mental health, and many men have found that removing themselves from such people and relationships has done wonders for them. Whatever or, more aptly, whomever is burdening you unnecessarily, should get cut off when possible!

Life is full of traps and people fall victim to them daily. It's a sad reality, and it doesn't discriminate. So after someone asked for examples, the internet delivered this list of pitfalls to avoid.

12. Introspection

It’s a good idea for men to be more contemplative when it comes to their thoughts and especially their feelings. They’ve learned to be strong (only) for far too long, and in doing so, a lot of them say it’s pretty challenging to understand their vulnerabilities and insecurities. Taking a moment to be introspective and figure out why you feel the way you do helps a ton.

<p><span>Apart from using color, students can also boost their memory by using diagrams to link information. If they find themselves zoning out when faced with a wall of text, they may want to write notes as a diagram like a spidergram, flowchart, or table. </span></p> <p><span>This helps separate the information into a more digestible format and makes it easier to color-coordinate critical points without color overload.</span></p>

13. Being Intentional With Your Time

Plenty of guys from the forum felt that being intentional with their time gave them more of a purpose and a drive. Intentionality gave them a reason to wake up and a goal to strive towards. Wandering around aimlessly with no purpose can be mentally taxing. However, men who have decided to make plans and strive to reach their objectives say they’re thriving.

<div>  Those who consider themselves pet parents dread the day their pet kid crosses the rainbow bridge. What's just as unbearable, if not more so, is wondering what will happen to their beloved furry, feathered, or scaly relatives after their humans die.  </div>

14. Getting Adequate Sleep

Sometimes, the answer to life’s problems is as simple as sleep! Often, people neglect the importance of sleep and how the lack of it can negatively impact the course of their day. Getting as close to eight hours of sleep a day can affect how you deal with life’s problems the following day. Take notes, guys!

<ul> <li><a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/worst-chain-food-ever/">24 Worst Chain Restaurants Across The Land According to Foodies</a></li> <li><a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/commonly-accepted-addictions/">15 Commonly Accepted Addictions That Are More Harmful Than We Realize</a></li> </ul>

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Kumail Nanjiani Shared How He Learned to Cope With Anxiety

The actor's mental state was "untenable" when he got cast in 'Eternals' and realized he needed help.

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But, as Nanjiani recently explained to Michael Rosenbaum on the Inside of You podcast, that period in his life was accompanied by a huge internal shift too, as he was getting to grips iwth his mental

"I do have anxiety , and it's been an issue for many, many years," he said. "It was a few years ago, actually, that I realized 'oh, this is untenable, it's too much anxiety.' And it was a few things: I realized that I had associated work with stress and nerves and anxiety."

He recalled how he had developed a series of habits during his time as a standup comic that had bled into other areas of his life, including his relationship with his wife and creative collaborator , Emily Gordon.

"Right before you do standup... your heart is beating, I used to smoke back then, I would just smoke four cigarettes and drink a Red Bull and go on stage completely wired and so up ," he explained . "So I sort of associated that body feeling with my work, and it was really hard for Emily, and it was really hard for me, and my work suffered."

The turning point came, Nanjiani continued, just as his acting career was about to blow up:

"It was right before Eternals , actually, where I was like, this is by far the biggest thing I've ever done, and maybe the biggest thing I'll ever do, this is so important to me, but if I'm nervous or anxious about this, I'm going to choke the fuck up about it. So I need to relax."

Nanjiani began seeing a therapist so he could begin to learn how to "really let things go," and it made a huge difference. He added that while he still has anxiety and struggles with "those middle of the night thoughts," he has now learned the tools to help contextualize and deal with what he's feeling, including meditating every day. "I've realized that when I'm relaxed, I'm better at my job," he said. "I'm better at acting, now I'm better at standup, I'm a better husband, all that stuff."

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Philip Ellis is News Editor at Men's Health , covering fitness, pop culture, sex and relationships, and LGBTQ+ issues. His work has appeared in GQ, Teen Vogue, Man Repeller and MTV, and he is the author of Love & Other Scams .

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This article was first published in 2022 and updated.

  • 8 March is International Women’s Day – devoted to celebrating the achievements of women and seeking gender equality.
  • The campaign theme in 2024 is #InspireInclusion , while the official theme of the UN observance of the day is ‘ Invest in women: Accelerate progress ’.
  • It will take another 131 years to reach gender parity, according to the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report 2023 .

Gender equality is central to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations (UN) – and a perennial item on the Secretary-General's annual priority list.

SDG5 calls for the world to " Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls " by 2030.

Empowering women can boost economies and help the peace process, believes António Guterres, but it needs to happen faster.

"We are promoting women's full and equal participation and leadership in all sectors of society, as a matter of urgency," he told the UN General Assembly, outlining the agency's priorities on 7 February 2024.

It will take another 131 years to reach gender parity , according to the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report 2023.

The continued fight for women’s rights is marked each year by International Women’s Day (IWD).

What is International Women’s Day and when did it start?

IWD takes place on 8 March every year.

It began life as National Women’s Day in the United States back in February 1909. The following year, at the second International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen, Denmark, women’s rights activist Clara Zetkin called for an international women’s day to give women a greater voice to further their demands for equal rights.

It was unanimously approved by the female attendees from 17 countries, including Finland’s first three women MPs. International Women’s Day was marked for the first time in March 1911 – and the date was fixed as 8 March in 1913. The UN celebrated it for the first time in 1975 and in 1996 it announced its first annual theme: "Celebrating the past, Planning for the Future".

How is the day marked around the world?

International Women’s Day is celebrated as a national holiday by countries across the globe, with women often given flowers and gifts – and there are IWD events in major cities worldwide .

On 8 March 1914, there was a women’s suffrage march in London, calling for women’s right to vote, at which high-profile campaigner Sylvia Pankhurst was arrested.

In 2001, the internationalwomensday.com platform was launched to reignite attention for the day, celebrate women’s achievements and continue to call for gender parity.

On the centenary in 2011, sitting US President Barack Obama called for March to be known as Women’s History Month. He said: “History shows that when women and girls have access to opportunity , societies are more just, economies are more likely to prosper, and governments are more likely to serve the needs of all their people.”

The World Economic Forum has been measuring gender gaps since 2006 in the annual Global Gender Gap Report .

The Global Gender Gap Report tracks progress towards closing gender gaps on a national level. To turn these insights into concrete action and national progress, we have developed the Gender Parity Accelerator model for public private collaboration.

These accelerators have been convened in twelve countries across three regions. Accelerators are established in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Mexico and Panama in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank in Latin America and the Caribbean, Egypt and Jordan in the Middle East and North Africa, and Japan and Kazakhstan in Asia.

All Country Accelerators, along with Knowledge Partner countries demonstrating global leadership in closing gender gaps, are part of a wider ecosystem, the Global Learning Network, that facilitates exchange of insights and experiences through the Forum’s platform.

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In these countries CEOs and ministers are working together in a three-year time frame on policies that help to further close the economic gender gaps in their countries. This includes extended parental leave, subsidized childcare and making recruitment, retention and promotion practices more gender inclusive.

If you are a business in one of the Gender Parity Accelerator countries you can join the local membership base.

If you are a business or government in a country where we currently do not have a Gender Parity Accelerator you can reach out to us to explore opportunities for setting one up.

What is the theme of International Women’s Day in 2024?

Each year, there are effectively two different themes: one proposed as a campaign theme by the IWD website, which this year is #InspireInclusion , and the UN's official, which this year is " Invest in women: Accelerate progress ".

UN Women and the UN's Department of Economic and Social Affairs jointly publish an annual update on the progress towards SDG5.

In the latest – Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals: The gender snapshot 2023 – they reveal there's an "alarming" $360 billion annual deficit in spending on gender-equality measures.

A gender-focused SDG stimulus package to deliver transformational results for women, girls and societies.

UN Women has outlined areas that need joint action to ensure women are not left behind:

Investing in women: A human rights issue

"Gender equality remains the greatest human rights challenge. Investing in women is a human rights imperative and cornerstone for building inclusive societies. Progress for women benefits us all."

Implementing gender-responsive financing

"Due to conflicts and rising fuel and food prices, recent estimates suggest that 75% of countries will curb public spending by 2025 . Austerity negatively impacts women and crowds out public spending on essential public services and social protection."

Shifting to a green and caring economy

"The current economic system exacerbates poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation , disproportionately affecting women and marginalized groups. Advocates for alternative economic models propose a shift towards a green and caring economy that amplifies women’s voices."

Supporting feminist change-makers

"Feminist organizations are leading efforts to tackle women’s poverty and inequality. However, they are running on empty, receiving a meagre 0.13% of total official development assistance ."

What is the state of gender parity globally?

The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index 2023 found that, although the global parity score has recovered to pre-pandemic levels, "the overall rate of change has slowed down significantly".

The index benchmarks 146 countries across four key dimensions (Economic Participation and Opportunity, Educational Attainment, Health and Survival and Political Empowerment) and tracks progress towards closing gender gaps over time.

Of the four gaps tracked, Political Empowerment remains the largest, with only 22.1% closed – a 0.1 percentage point increase on 2022.

The gender health gap: It's more than a women’s issue. Here’s why

Why clear job descriptions matter for gender equality, buses are key to fuelling indian women's economic success. here's why, what is the gender pay gap.

The gender gap in Economic Participation and Opportunity remained the second largest of the gaps, with only 60.1% closed so far (up slightly from 58% in 2022). The pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis is having a disproportionate impact on women .

The gender pay gap is the “difference between the average pay of men and women within a particular group or population” according to the Fawcett Society, which campaigns for equal pay in the UK.

Each year, the charity marks Equal Pay Day in the UK, the day of the year at which women stop earning relative to men. In 2023, that date was 22 November.

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