While it is true that anyone can be affected by mental health issues, men are less likely to seek treatment. Let us tell you how to recognize the signs and know when to seek professional help.
Mental health is for everyone. Conditions such as depression and anxiety can affect anyone. However, it has been shown that men are less likely than women to seek professional help to manage their symptoms. According to statistics compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, this is a contributing factor to the higher rates of suicide among men.
For this reason, it is critical to be aware of specific red flags that indicate a man may need help to manage his condition. Men can experience the same mental illnesses as women, but the symptoms may manifest differently.
Some of these symptoms or behaviors may include:
- Irritability, anger, or aggressive behavior
- Significant mood swings or changes in energy levels
- Lack of appetite
- Changes in sleep patterns, whether it’s sleeping too much or too little
- Difficulty concentrating
- Constant feelings of worry and/or stress
- Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Body aches or digestive issues with no medical explanation
- Obsessive thoughts and compulsive behavior
- Alcohol and/or drug abuse
- Suicidal thoughts
If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to seek professional help. Just like any physical ailment, mental health can be treated. The sooner you seek help, the better.
At Salus Clinics, we have mental health professionals ready to lend a helping hand. Make your appointment today by calling 787.789.1996.
If you are feeling anxious, worried, overwhelmed, or are experiencing other emotional symptoms, call the PAS Line: 1-800-981-0023 (or 1-888-672-7622 for the deaf). Dedicated staff is available 24/7 to talk with you and assist you.
SOURCES
National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Men and Mental Health. Retrieved on June 9, 2023, https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health
Medical News Today. (2022). Men’s mental health: ‘Man up’ is not the answer. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mens-mental-health-man-up-is-not-the-answer#men-of-color
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Drug Overdose Deaths in the United States, 1999–2019. National Center for Health Statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db330.htm
