Mental health concerns among men: Identifying factors and boosting available resources
In a concerning global trend, males are more likely to take their own lives than females, a disparity that can be attributed to a variety of complex factors.
Research suggests that high testosterone levels in males may drive suicidal behaviours through increased impulsivity and aggression, leading to more lethal attempts [4]. Additionally, males tend to use more lethal methods, such as firearms, which account for 56% of male suicides compared to 31% of female suicides [3].
Another contributing factor is healthcare utilization. Men generally use fewer mental healthcare services than women, which can contribute to a higher risk of suicide [2]. This gender health paradox is alarming, as despite higher mortality rates from diseases of despair, including suicide, men are less likely to seek mental health care, while women seek more services and still experience higher levels of mental distress [2].
Healthcare professionals and researchers are working tirelessly to address this issue. Strategies include increasing access to mental health services, developing targeted interventions, and offering gender-sensitive care [2]. Programs focusing on lethal means reduction, such as firearm safety, and early intervention for mental health issues are being developed [3]. Healthcare providers are also encouraged to address the unique needs and barriers faced by men [2].
Ongoing research is exploring the biological factors and psychological mechanisms contributing to gender differences in suicide risk [4]. The use of digital technologies to monitor and prevent suicidal behavior is also being explored, including analyzing online search trends for early warning signs [1]. Community-based initiatives aim to reduce social isolation and promote social support networks for men at risk of suicide.
Public awareness campaigns are being implemented to reduce stigma around mental health and encourage men to seek help. Policy changes are advocated to support better mental health services and structural changes to address societal pressures that may contribute to despair and suicide.
Specialists suggest that Black males in the U.S. may be more likely to seek support in informal settings, such as places of worship or barbershops. Mental health professionals diagnose depression more often in women than in men, highlighting the need for better mental health education.
It is crucial to remember that mental health issues in males can manifest differently than in females, with symptoms such as higher levels of anger, aggression, and irritability, or physiological issues like a racing heart, digestive issues, or headaches.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, resources such as the 988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, and Befrienders Worldwide are available for free and confidential support 24/7.
Mental health issues are not a sign of weakness, but a health issue that requires attention and care. Let's work together to break the stigma and encourage men to seek help when they need it.
- The disparity in suicide rates between males and females can be partially explained by the high testosterone levels in males, which may lead to increased impulsivity and aggression, resulting in more lethal attempts.
- Men tend to use more lethal methods in suicides, such as firearms, accounting for 56% of male suicides compared to 31% of female suicides.
- The lower usage of mental health services by men contributes to a higher risk of suicide, as part of a gender health paradox where men have higher mortality rates from diseases of despair but are less likely to seek mental health care.
- Efforts to address this issue include increasing access to mental health services, developing targeted interventions, and offering gender-sensitive care, along with programs focusing on lethal means reduction and early intervention for mental health issues.
- Ongoing research is exploring the biological factors and psychological mechanisms contributing to gender differences in suicide risk, as well as the use of digital technologies to monitor and prevent suicidal behavior.
- Community-based initiatives aim to reduce social isolation and promote social support networks for men at risk of suicide, while public awareness campaigns address stigma around mental health and encourage men to seek help.
- Specialists have observed that Black males in the U.S. may be more likely to seek support in informal settings, such as places of worship or barbershops, and mental health professionals diagnose depression more often in women, highlighting the need for better mental health education.
