Breaking the silence!
Today everyone is coming to understand the importance of mental health. A seemingly simple anxiousness, stress or low mood can be something big. Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, yet it often remains an overlooked aspect of health, especially among men.
Society’s expectations, old and traditional views which always tell men to be strong, not to express emotions. They are expected to undergo everything within themselves and never seek help regarding their mental health. We have anchored men in our society with some unbreakable chains of expectations.
Haa!! Men are strong!
Man up! Men don’t cry! Men can endure everything!
I’ve seen people saying that men shouldn’t even feel soft emotions. Hence, they are made to live through a silent crisis. Aren’t these claims too harsh for men in our society?
Men in our society are human too, they have feelings and emotions too. Traditionally, men have been expected to be strong, tough, and unemotional. Showing vulnerability is often seen as a sign of weakness, which makes many men hide their struggles. This silence can lead to serious problems like substance abuse, relationship issues, and even suicide which are often overlooked.
We need to challenge these outdated views. Men should understand that mental health issues are not personal failures but challenges that can be managed with the right support. Just like physical health problems need medical care, mental health issues also need professional attention. Recognizing this is the first step to healing.
One way to break this silence is by encouraging open conversations about mental health. Men should be urged to share their experiences and listen to others, creating a community that normalizes talking about mental health.
This can start at home, in schools, and at work, where mental health resources should be easily available.
We should create a safe environment where everyone in society, regardless of gender, age or social status, can come forward with their problems and seek professional help for themselves.
Friends, family, and colleagues can work as a support system and offer invaluable support by being present and listening without judgment. Professional help from therapists and counselors is also essential and should be encouraged.
Men need to know that seeking therapy is a sign of strength and a proactive step toward their better mental health. Taking therapy is not only their path to living a happy and fulfilled life but for their close and loved ones also.
One more way is educating people regarding this. Men should learn about signs of mental health issues and the options available as their aid. This knowledge empowers them to recognize when they or someone around them might be struggling and to take action. Public health campaigns, educational programs, and community outreach can improve mental health awareness.
To say, we live in a developed society, but still there are some untouched topics which stay hidden from societal views. Men’s mental health is the epitome of -
‘Elephant in the room.’
Addressing men’s mental health requires a comprehensive approach that includes challenging societal norms, encouraging open conversations, providing education, and building strong support systems. Breaking the silence and creating an environment where men feel comfortable seeking help, and lead a happy and harmonious life.
The month of June is celebrated as the men’s mental health month. So let’s fight the stigma that overtime society has created as the definition of a “strong” men. And not just for this month but any chance that we get, let’s support men and make them feel heard not weak for sharing their problems.
One more thing -
Let’s remember that mental health is not just any single gender’s issue — it’s a human issue, deserving of attention, care, and compassion.
