Erasing the Stigma: Mental Health for Men

By: Jason M. Jowers, MS

Pixabay[Portrait of Young Man by pixabay on Feb 20, 2019, CC0]

First off, we must find ways to fight mental health stigma. This post from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) [1] shared 9 ways to fight against mental health stigma and make it possible for advocacy in the mental health community. These suggestions include: talking openly about mental health, educating yourself, being conscious of the language you use, showing genuine compassion, and choosing empowerment.

This stigma is also far reaching and affects various populations, including men. In my own work with clients, male clients were often guarded and untrusting to begin with. It seems to go back to the idea that men are strong and can handle anything that’s thrown at them. Men don’t cry, share their feelings, etc. These persistent norms about masculinity oftentimes leave many men suffering in silence. So, how can we get past this stigma and make it where men feel at ease with dealing with their mental health problems?

This article from U.S. News [2] focuses on strategies to break down these barriers to mental health counseling for men.

The program discussed in the article, Healthy Men Michigan, looks at how treatment is presented and finds alternatives that male clients might be more open to engaging in other than talk therapy. These include infusing physical activity, like exercising or even hobbies, with mental health initiatives. Humor is also a good way to break down barriers and can help all clients in general feel more at ease. Finally, to be aware of how gender plays a role in how emotions and behaviors are expressed. Anger is typically a “normal” emotion that men can express, but may be in response to feeling depression or anxiety. Knowing these signs can be beneficial in helping men express themselves appropriately.

For more on breaking down the barriers of mental health, view our archived webinar, “Staying Strong by Seeking Help: Barriers and Facilitators to Mental Health Treatment-Seeking.” This 90 minute webinar addresses the barriers and stigma of mental health treatment among military personnel. CEUs still available!

Also, read our past blog post, “Dissolving the Myth of the Loony Line: The Effects of Stigma on Military Personnel Mental Health Treatment Seeking.” It includes an introduction and the research of Dr. Thomas Britt, our presenter for the Staying Strong by Seeking Help webinar.