Males and Mental Health

It’s no secret that men have a difficult time talking about their emotional or mental struggles. What is lesser-known, however, is how the unhealthy connection between males and mental health treatment is leading to a wide range of problems including substance abuse and suicide.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide for Prevention, men have a higher rate of suicide (3.5%) than women. Depression and suicide are among the leading causes of fatality among men each year. For this reason, it is important to end the stigma surrounding males and mental health.

The Stigma Around Mental Health Treatment

The stigma that we often refer to is that male teenagers often view mental disorders or their treatment as a sign of weakness. As such, this deters them from seeking treatment. A male may carry a disorder inside for several years before finally addressing it. This is because they do not want to be perceived as weak.

While many feel that the stigma is outdated, it is still prevalent in both teen and adult males. Furthermore, men often see mental health issues as character flaws and medical conditions. They often feel that they can just shake it off or improve their life and their condition will go away. However, when it comes to males and mental health, problems don’t go away on their own. Treatment is essential to help the problem.

Asking for Help with a Mental Health Issue

Even male teens who may initially resist getting treatment for a mental disorder can tell when it’s time to ask for help. The key to getting help for a condition is to identify the signs of depression, anxiety, or another disorder. Some of the most common signs of mental disorders include:

• Headaches or stomach problems
• Severe and ongoing mood fluctuations
• An overall feeling of hopelessness or despair
• Changes in work performance or motivation
• Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns
• Turning to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate

Once a person has identified the signs of a mental disorder, then they may want to turn to a family member or friend to discuss the problem. From there, they should seek professional help at a mental disorder treatment center. A treatment center offers licensed care for a wide range of disorders such as bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, anxiety, or borderline personality disorder.

Learn More at Foothills at Red Oak

When it comes to males and mental health, it is important to identify and address mental issues as soon as possible. Doing so can help a person avoid addiction and get the right treatment so that they can manage their disorder. At Foothills at Red Oak, we treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Substance abuse disorders
• Eating disorders

Foothills at Red Oak offers comprehensive treatment for mental disorders and addictions. Our services include detox, rehab, and aftercare programs. To get started with your treatment, call 866.300.5275. We can answer your questions about males and mental health, discuss your condition, and get you started on the right treatment program today.