June is Men’s Health Month, which aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental health for men. While anyone can experience depression or anxiety, men often delay seeking help when needed. According to Adam Borland, PsyD, a clinical psychologist at Cleveland Clinic, men tend to avoid confronting their issues by immersing themselves in work or projects to an unhealthy extent. It is crucial for men to acknowledge that there is a problem before taking steps to address it.
Symptoms of depression and anxiety may manifest differently in men compared to women, with physical signs like headaches being more common. Men also tend to resort to harmful coping mechanisms like substance abuse to deal with their emotions. To maintain good mental health, Dr. Borland recommends that men identify trustworthy friends or family members with whom they can share their feelings. Additionally, writing or journaling can be effective in processing difficult emotions.
If feelings of depression or anxiety become overwhelming, seeking help from a mental health professional is vital. Dr. Borland emphasizes that seeking treatment is not a sign of weakness but rather a display of strength. It is unhealthy to ignore issues and pretend they do not exist. Dr. Borland notes that more men are seeking therapy, and he encourages others to seek help if needed. If you would like to access soundbites, b-roll, a script, and a web article related to men’s mental health, contact ccnewsservice@ccf.org for a download password.
In conclusion, Men’s Health Month in June highlights the importance of mental health for all individuals but particularly for men who often delay seeking help when needed due to societal pressures and cultural norms surrounding masculinity.
It is essential for men to recognize the signs of depression and anxiety and seek professional help when necessary rather than relying on harmful coping mechanisms such as substance abuse.
Dr. Borland emphasizes the need for open communication with trusted friends and family members and suggests journaling as an effective way of processing difficult emotions.
As more men are seeking therapy nowadays, Dr. Borland encourages others who may be struggling with mental health issues to reach out for support without fear of judgment or stigma.
If you need resources related to Men’s Mental Health Month visit ccnewsservice@ccf
