“Having a mental health problem doesn’t mean you’re a bad person or that you’re weak, not manly, or that you’re losing your masculinity. In fact, quite the opposite is true. We believe that admitting to yourself (and others, if necessary) that you have a problem, and getting the help you need is a sign of great strength.” This resource from The Men’s Health Network discusses the importance of mental wellness for a man’s overall health, identifying symptoms of a problem and practical interventions. Click the source link to access the full, 36 page booklet and check out some of our favorite quotes below.
“The strains of living, working and retiring in the early part of the 21st century on men are significant. Yet, the dominant views about how men should emotionally respond to challenges of life’s stressors have not changed for hundreds of years. Phrases such as, “Take it like a man!”, “Suck it up, son!” and “Don’t be such a wimp!”, still pervade our cultural lexicon. Men continue to be acculturated to the unhealthy notion that they should not recognize their emotional and mental stressors and deal with them realistically and openly.”
“Overall, women are about twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with a mental health issue. But that statistic tells only a small part of the story. Here’s why. To start with, men make about two-thirds as many doctor visits as women do. And even when we do see a doctor, we’re often reluctant to talk about what’s really bothering us, especially if it has anything to do with feelings or mood. Plus, most men don’t realize that some of the physical symptoms we may experience—things like chronic pain and digestive problems—could actually be caused by a mental health issue such as depression, anxiety, or stress. And then there are the men who know (or at least strongly suspect) that they have a problem, but suffer in silence, afraid to admit they need help. Afraid others will find out their secret and they’ll be perceived as weak or wimpy, or that they’ll lose their job.”
“We are confident that this book, Your Head: An Owner’s Manual, will provide men of all ages, and those who love them, with important and realistic perspectives about mental health along with realistic and practical approaches that can make a difference in their lives. Experts in the field of men’s health and wellness provide insights and reflections on the emotional needs of men as well as how men can ask for help, with dignity, when needed for these devastating medical conditions. The book will highlight common signs and symptoms of trouble to help men and those who love them recognize the need for intervention.”