Debunking 6 Common Lies Men Believe Regarding Mental Health
Men’s mental health has not always been openly discussed.
It wasn’t until the 20th century that men’s mental health started to become accepted. It is very true that men, not just women, can wrestle with poor mental health. According to Mental Health America, over 6 million men struggle with depression each year, and depression in men often goes underdiagnosed.
If you are a man struggling with your mental health and wondering if any other men feel the same way, know that you are not alone. There are resources to help you.
Many men (and women) might believe lies regarding men’s mental health. Below are 6 lies men commonly believe about mental health and how they can be debunked with the truth.
Lie #1 Vulnerability is not for me
Society has frequently discouraged men from showing their emotions and feelings. When they try, they are typically shut down. The truth is that vulnerability increases self-awareness, deepens relationships, and allows for healing. Men and women alike benefit from vulnerability. It is important to learn how to be honest with ourselves.
Lie #2 Isolation is a sign of strength
Many men might view isolation as a synonym for independence. They might think if they can isolate themselves, it shows they have power and control on their own without needing the help of others. The truth is that no human being was created for isolation. Everyone was meant for connection. Isolation will hurt your mental health, while strong relationships will uplift it.
Lie #3 I can tough out any situation
Yes, in some situations in life, we can tough it out on our own. But the truth is that there are struggles where interventions from professionals, family, friends, or community might be necessary. Especially if you are struggling with a mental illness like depression or anxiety, interventions might be crucial and that is okay!
Lie #4 Self-care is only for women
You indeed see many self-care trends for women, but not many for men. But this does not mean that men should not take time for self-care. The truth is that both men and women will burn out if they do not take care of themselves. Men–it is not selfish to take a break when needed, hang out with guy friends, or go be in nature for a few hours.
Lie #5 Crying is a sign of weakness
According to Harvard Health, crying can release emotional pain and stress. Crying allows you to cope in a healthy way instead of keeping painful emotions inside, which can harm both your physical and mental health. Crying is good for you and necessary to release emotions. It does not show that you are weak, but rather that you are strong enough to accomplish the beautiful task of being vulnerable.
Lie #6 I don’t need help controlling and navigating my life
The truth is that it is okay to ask for help! Everyone was built for community. We were not made to go about life alone, but to do life WITH other people! Men have a lot of hats to juggle. From being an employee, boss, husband, father, son, brother, leader etc. – men are doing a lot! You need support to do it all well. You are not alone (and that’s a good thing)!
Men–believe these lies no longer! Learning the truth about men’s mental health is extremely important and freeing. You can be the person who stops the stigma around men’s mental health and talks about it openly with others. If you are in need of therapy or a men’s support group, check out the resources below.
Resources
Book a session for individual or couples’ counseling at Novo Life!
A virtual support group where men come together and discuss a different topic each week, while being vulnerable with each other: Kings Corner virtual space | Black Men Heal
Men’s Process Group in Vancouver, WA
Grief and Loss Men’s Group in Seattle, WA
Men’s Sexual Addiction Recovery Group in Seattle, WA