Breaking Barriers: A Call to Action for Men’s Mental Health Awareness

June marks Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the importance of mental health for men. Despite the fact that nearly one in 10 men experience depression or anxiety, less than half seek help. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that this is due to a variety of factors, including societal stigma and the belief that seeking help is a sign of weakness.

Mental Health America reports that in the United States, more than four times as many men die by suicide compared to women. This statistic is particularly concerning, as it highlights the need for greater awareness and support for men’s mental health.

In New Hanover County, the suicide rate is nearly double the national average, with 83% of reported suicides in 2021 and 75% in 2022 being men. Jeffrey Jordan from Wilmington Mental Health explains that seeking help can be challenging for men, who often feel the need to prioritize taking care of others. Therapist Gage Howard mentions that men sometimes feel the need to hide their emotions, especially from their partners, leading to feelings of inadequacy.

As part of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, therapists aim to eliminate the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and encourage individuals to seek assistance when needed. This includes emphasizing the importance of asking for help and acknowledging that it takes courage to reach out rather than bottling up emotions.

For those struggling with mental health, support is readily available through resources such as therapy and counseling services provided by organizations like Wilmington Mental Health or online platforms like Talkspace or BetterHelp. Additionally, there are crisis hotlines such as the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988) which operate 24/7 providing immediate support when needed.

Seeking help is a brave step towards prioritizing your mental well-being – let us break down barriers and promote mental health awareness for all genders!