The Ugly Truth

Here’s a bitter pill: men are more likely to have depression and commit suicide than women. Yeah, you heard it right. In our society, it’s perfectly fine for a woman to spill her guts about her feelings and seek help for her mental health. But when a guy does the same, he’s told to “man up” and “deal with it.” What a load of bull, right?

Men are expected to be these emotionless robots, always strong, stoic, and in control. But guess what? Men are human too, and they’re just as susceptible to mental health issues as women are. One in eight men will experience depression, and one in five will experience anxiety.

The Grim Statistics

Let’s talk numbers. Men are twice as likely to commit suicide as women in the United States. On average, there are 130 suicides daily, and white males accounted for nearly 70% of suicide deaths in 2020. If that doesn’t scream, “we have a problem,” I don’t know what does.

Digging Deeper: The Root of the Problem

The biggest issue with men’s mental health is that it’s seen as a sign of weakness. Men are taught to bottle up their emotions, leading to resentment, anger, and eventually, a ticking time bomb waiting to explode. This emotional constipation can also lead to substance abuse and other destructive behaviors.

Let’s take a look at the wounded masculine. Due to societal stigmas and trauma, men aren’t taught HOW to feel and express themselves. Many don’t even have someone to confide in to feel heard. They chalk it up to being stubborn or “just how they are.” But that’s the very thing that begins to eat them alive inside.

Practical Advice: How to Express Emotions

Men, it’s time to break the mold. Start by acknowledging your feelings. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or anxious. These are normal human emotions, and it’s healthy to express them. Find a safe space where you can talk about your feelings without judgment. This could be a trusted friend, a family member, or a mental health professional.