What Mental Health Issues Are Common In Men?
STORY / 29.01.25 / 2 min read
by Tom Garber
Prevalence of Mental Health Issues Among Men
In 2023, it was estimated that 19% of men in the United States had experienced some form of mental illness in the past year. Despite this significant figure, men are less likely than women to seek mental health treatment, leading to underdiagnosis and untreated conditions.
Common Mental Health Disorders in Men
Depression
Approximately 1 in 8 men report experiencing symptoms of mental health problems, with depression being a significant concern. However, male depression often goes underdiagnosed, as men may exhibit different symptoms than women, such as irritability, anger, or aggression.
Anxiety Disorders
At any one time, it is believed that one in eight men have a common mental health problem, such as anxiety. Symptoms can include excessive worry, restlessness, and physical signs like increased heart rate.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder affects both men and women equally, with the age of onset for men typically between 16 to 25 years old. It is characterized by mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.
Schizophrenia
Approximately 3.5 million people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, with 90% of those diagnosed by age 30 being men. Symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized
thinking.
Substance Use Disorders
Men are more likely than women to misuse substances as a coping mechanism for unaddressed mental health problems. This includes alcohol and drug abuse, which can exacerbate other mental health issues.
Suicide
Men are three times more likely to die by suicide in comparison to women. This alarming statistic underscores the severity of untreated mental health issues among men.
Barriers to Seeking Help
Several factors contribute to men’s reluctance to seek mental health care:
Societal Expectations:
Traditional masculine ideals often emphasize stoicism, independence, and emotional control. These cultural norms can discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking
help.
Stigma:
The stigma associated with mental illness can impede men’s willingness to seek treatment, as they may fear being perceived as weak or unmanly.
Lack of Awareness:
Many men may not recognize the symptoms of mental health disorders or may downplay their severity, leading to delays in seeking help.
Consequences of Untreated Mental Health Issues
When mental health issues go untreated in men, the consequences can be severe:
• Increased Suicide Rates: As noted, men are significantly more likely to die by suicide, highlighting the critical need for mental health interventions.
• Physical Health Problems: Untreated mental health disorders can lead to physical health issues, including heart disease and a weakened immune system.
Strategies to Improve Men’s Mental Health
Addressing men’s mental health requires a multifaceted approach:
• Promote Open Dialogue: Encouraging conversations about mental health can help reduce stigma and make it easier for men to seek help.
• Tailored Interventions: Developing mental health programs that consider masculine norms and values can increase their effectiveness.
• Education and Awareness: Improving mental health literacy among men can help them recognize symptoms and understand the importance of seeking treatment.
By understanding the unique challenges men face regarding mental health and implementing targeted strategies, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of mental health issues and improving overall well-being among men.
References:
• Men’s Mental Health: Why 40% of men won’t talk about it
• Men and mental health: What are we missing?