Do men and women face the same mental health challenges? – Deseret News
For years, a critical disparity existed in healthcare: women’s heart attack symptoms were often overlooked because they differed from the “classic” male presentation. Now, a similar pattern is emerging in mental healthcare. Traditional understandings of mental health crises are often geared toward recognizing distress in women, potentially leaving men’s struggles unseen and unaddressed.
The Hidden Signs of a Mental Health Crisis
A Gendered Experience
According to Dr. Eric Monson of the Huntsman Mental Health Institute, men and women often respond very differently to severe mental distress. Women are generally more likely to recognize when they’re struggling and to seek help, often experiencing symptoms like tearfulness and disinterest in previously enjoyed activities. Men, however, are less likely to identify their own challenges, often dismissing them, potentially due to lingering stigma surrounding mental health.
This isn’t to say men don’t experience mental health crises; rather, the presentation can be markedly different. Irritability, edginess, and a compulsion to immerse oneself in work can all be indicators of a deeper struggle. This drive to work, while seemingly positive, can actually serve as a way to escape difficult feelings.
How Symptoms Differ
Dr. Monson highlights key differences in how mental health crises manifest in men versus women. Men tend to exhibit more externalizing behaviors – actions that impact those around them – while women are more prone to internalizing behaviors like self-criticism and suicidal ideation. These externalizing behaviors can unfortunately lead to legal trouble, with men ending up incarcerated as a consequence of an unmanaged mental health crisis.
men are more likely to turn to substances like alcohol and marijuana to numb their feelings. While women attempt suicide more often, men are more likely to die by suicide, often because their struggles are recognised only after it’s too late. It’s also common for those experiencing a significant mental health issue – regardless of gender – to be less aware of it than those around them.
The Impact of Perception
Often, when men misbehave, it’s attributed to character flaws rather than a potential mental health crisis. This misinterpretation is particularly concerning, as it can perpetuate a cycle of misunderstanding and prevent individuals from receiving the support they need. State Rep. Steve Eliason noted that correctional institutions across the nation are, in effect, the largest mental health institutions, highlighting the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system.
What the Future May Hold
If current trends continue, we could see a growing number of individuals, particularly men, entering the criminal justice system due to unaddressed mental health needs. Increased awareness and training for law enforcement and correctional staff could be a possible next step in addressing this issue.
Alternatively, a greater emphasis on preventative mental healthcare, particularly for boys and young men, may help to reduce the incidence of crises. The I Love You Bro Project, which connects men with peer support groups, offers a promising model for alternative support systems.
Age and Development
These differences are particularly pronounced during adolescence. Before puberty, symptoms tend to overlap more between boys and girls. However, after puberty, boys are more likely to exhibit behavioral challenges like hyperactivity and irritability, while girls may present with anxiety or mood disorders. Boys are sometimes mislabeled as “problem children” when their behavior is actually a manifestation of underlying mental health concerns.
Changing the Conversation
Dr. Daniel Amen is spearheading a national campaign to reframe the conversation around “brain health” rather than “mental illness,” aiming to reduce stigma. Experts emphasize that talking about suicide does not increase the risk of suicide; in fact, open communication is crucial. Healthcare providers are increasingly incorporating mental health screenings into routine visits, which is a positive development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some signs of a mental health crisis in men?
Irritability, edginess, a drive to overwork, and increased use of substances like alcohol or marijuana can all be signs that a man is struggling with a mental health crisis.
Are men less likely to seek help for mental health issues?
Yes, men are less likely to recognize their own challenges and more apt to brush them off, potentially due to the stigma surrounding mental health.
How can I help a man who may be struggling with a mental health crisis?
Listen without judgment, offer support, and encourage him to seek professional help. Approaching the topic as a shared exploration – “I was thinking of checking this out, would you go with me?” – can be more effective than direct pressure.
How can we better support the mental well-being of men and boys in our communities?