June 18, 2024
2 mins read

40% of Indian Men Silent on Mental Health

Historically, societal expectations have dictated that men embody strength, resilience, and emotional stoicism. Biological and hormonal influences like testosterone also contribute to different emotional responses in men…reports Asian Lite News

While society has started openly discussing issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress, men’s mental health continues to be an overlooked area. About 40 per cent of men in India do not talk about their mental health openly, over fear of stigma, said experts on Thursday.

International Men’s Health Week is observed every year from June 10 to June 16, to raise awareness on men’s health issues.

“The lack of discussions about men’s mental health or their propensity to seek help along with the growing suicide rates may be explained by the male gender norms that are socially constructed,” Dr Samir Kumar Praharaj, Professor and Head – Department of Psychiatry, Kasturba Medical College and Hospitals, MAHE, Manipal, told.

“About 40 per cent of Indian men don’t talk about their mental health openly, largely due to stigmas and misconceptions, including the mistaken belief that men should handle their emotions on their own,” added Dr Shyam Bhat, Psychiatrist, and Chairperson, of LiveLoveLaugh.

Historically, societal expectations have dictated that men embody strength, resilience, and emotional stoicism. Biological and hormonal influences like testosterone also contribute to different emotional responses in men.

Dr Samir said that in most cases, men are an example of how to mask emotions since it is considered shameful for them to express feelings or seek help.

“When depressed, men are more likely to display aggression and anger rather than sadness, compared with women, who may be more in touch with their sadness and vulnerability,” Dr Shyam told.

“Consequently, many men suffer in silence or become isolated and resort to substance abuse, as they battle their internal struggles without the support they desperately need. This increases suicide risk in men, and consequently, death by suicide in men occurs 2.5 times more than in women,” he added.

The doctors called for awareness campaigns and educational programmes to assist in the elimination of myths and stigmatisation associated with mental disorders as well as foster conversation.

Dr Samir stressed healthy habits such as exercising, doing mindful activities, and engaging in creative outlets for better mental health.

“The emphasis should be shifted to altering the perception of male masculinity and persuading men to take their mental health issues seriously and to seek help if they experience any difficulties,” the health expert said.

ALSO READ-Mental Health Changes May Signal Brain Tumour Risk

Previous Story

The Nagarwala Scandal: The Heist That Shook a Nation

Next Story

Biden to Approve ‘Resolve Tibet Act,’ Confirms McCaul in Dharamshala

Latest from Health

Generic Drugs Boost Hypertension Control

By setting price ceilings on essential medicines based on average market prices, India successfully kept out-of-pocket costs low while still ensuring manufacturers made sustainable profits India’s focused public health strategies—centered on generic

Physiotherapy in Healthy Ageing

This year’s theme, “Healthy Ageing – Role of Physiotherapy in Falls and Frailty”, draws attention to the significance of physiotherapy in preventing falls, managing frailty, and supporting dignified ageing among the elderly

Lower BP Target Could Benefit Indians

Beyond salt reduction, experts stressed that controlling hypertension requires a comprehensive approach. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, reducing alcohol intake, quitting tobacco, and consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits

Silent Diabetes Crisis Unfolds

The report further highlights that even for those who do receive a diagnosis, the challenges of care and management remain significant A startling number of young adults across the globe are living

Physiotherapists Barred From ‘Doctor’ Title

The DGHS letter cited past legal pronouncements and advisory orders from courts and councils that had already prohibited physiotherapists and occupational therapists from using the title The Directorate General of Health Services
Go toTop

Don't Miss

New Delhi needs to remain focused on Myanmar

New Delhi has high security, strategic and economic stakes in

PLA refuses to budge, India-China talks collapse

During the meeting, the Indian side made constructive suggestions for