Men are less likely to see help for their Mental Health – why must this change?
- Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under the age of 50.
- Men had over three times the number of deaths from suicide compared with women under the age of 50.
- However, only 36% of psychological therapies referrals are for men.
- Men can suffer from anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions at any point in their lives, just like women. In fact, we now know that 1 in 10 men experience postpartum depression and anxiety.
Why might Men hide their Mental Health struggles?
- As a society, there has long been an unhelpful belief, perpetuated by toxic masculinity that “real men don’t talk about their struggles”.
- When men do open up, they may be told to “man up” by others, discouraging them to open up.
- As a result, reaching out for help can often feel like the hardest thing to do, despite it being vital for your health and wellbeing.
How can you seek help if you feel as though you are struggling?
- Reaching out to a trusted friend or loved one can be an important first step in the right direction.
- Talk to a doctor so they can assess you and enable you to move forward positively. Often that involves speaking to a qualified psychologist for the correct form of talking therapy for you, and sometimes they may suggest medications to help your symptoms. As well as discussing the important selfcare and lifestyle changes that will help.
- The Mental Support Line is a dedicated service set up in Dubai by the National Program for Happiness and Wellbeing to provide basic mental support for residents. You can call between 8am and 8pm on 800-HOPE (8004673) or send a WhatsApp to the same number.
- ‘Lighthouse Arabia’ run a free men’s mental health support group which is pressure free with no obligation to seek.
- If you ever feel as though you don’t want to live anymore, this is an emergency, and you must attend an Emergency Department immediately.
For anyone who feels they are struggling with this, or knows of someone who would benefit from some help, please call or WhatsApp the clinic to book an appointment with Dr Lindsey.
