College Blog

How often do you see men discuss their mental well-being at work? Probably not very often. But that does not mean they're coping with it any better than anyone else is. 

Studies show that distress manifests differently in men than women. And irrespective of age, nationality, or ethnicity, men are far less likely to seek help for mental health challenges. More

often than not, the demotivator is driven by gender-related barriers and stigmas. Men face both, self-stigma and social stigma about showing their emotions or talking about their level of anxiety, low mood, and stress.

The self-stigma comes from unconscious masculine ideals that have been culturally conditioned and socialised into their narrative of self, or their identity as men. The traditional male stereotype includes that men are expected to be assertive, ambitious, independent, self-reliant, in-control, strong, and successful earners who have stable jobs. 

Such stereotypes and stigma, however, reduce their capacity to acknowledge and recognise their own sadness and articulate those feelings to themselves. So let's take a lot at some of the causes and signs of this - and ways in which we can help. 

How Can Distress Show Up in Men?

• Distraction: Excessive time on a device, endless hours at work, and diminished work performance

• Escaping: Drinking more frequently, binge eating, and over investigating
• Withdrawal: Not joining post-work or College social activities, eating alone, and taking excessive sick days.
• Externalisation: Low impulse control, snapping at people, irritability, and showing anti-social behaviour.

How can managers and tutors step in?

• Show your own vulnerability in private settings
• Legitimise and redefine help-seeking as a show of strength of character.
• Focus on the semantics

What are Some of the Most Common Mental Health Issues Amongst Men?

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Substance abuse
• Sleep issues
• Relationship issues

How Can You Help?

Speaking with someone who can assure confidentiality and professional guidance is a great way to help men come out of a dark space. So wether you are asking for help for a friend or for yourself, you can get in touch with the Happy Minds team at 9801570102.