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When people talk about mental health, men's problems are often overlooked because of societal norms and the "macho" mindset that still exists. However, treating men's mental health is critical—not only for the men in our lives but also for the overall well-being of society.
There are different groups that advocate for men's health, and one of the most well-known is the Movember movement, which aims to promote healthy lives for men worldwide.
The Australian-based Movember organization and NGO has supported many prostate health charities since 2003. The movement began with men growing moustaches, but Travis Garone and Luke Slattery recognized its potential to spark meaningful conversations and transformed it into something more significant. In 2017, they began a project on gender stereotypes, manhood, and, most importantly, men's suicide rates. Since then, discussions about men's health and funded initiatives, including those related to mental health and suicide prevention, have grown stronger and more extensive. Countries such as New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, and Africa have now recognized it.
Here in the Philippines, we celebrate and raise awareness for Men's Health Awareness each June. Similarly, in November, people around the world honor Men's Mental Health Awareness Month. These months focus on mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer.
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Why is it necessary to discuss men's mental health?
As we discussed in our previous article, the "macho" culture common in our society often leads us to put the men in our lives on a pedestal and disregard their emotions. Whatever the gender may be, men also experience varying emotions when they go through transitions in life.
Studies have shown that the demographic that makes up the highest suicide rate is that of men. Additionally, men are more likely than women to suffer from mental, neurological, and substance abuse disorders (MNS). Dr. Ma. Lourdes Rosanna de Guzman further stated that while mental health concerns are more common among women in other countries, this is not the case in the Philippines, where they are more prevalent among men.
Thus, raising awareness about men's health helps spark the conversation about their often overlooked health and well-being concerns.
How can we reach out to them—men?
It's crucial to let them know that you are there for them, even though most men are accustomed to keeping things to themselves and will only ask for assistance if they have run out of other options and resources.
Use ALEC, a guide from R U OK?, to start a conversation with the men in our lives who are going through a tough time:
ASK. Start by asking how they are feeling. If you are worried about them, mention changes that you’ve noticed and start the conversation from there. You may try, “Uy, napansin kong napapadalas yung pag-yosi mo ha? Kumusta ka?”
They may say, “Okay lang ako,” but politely ask twice and assure them you're available when they're ready to talk.
LISTEN. If they begin to share, actively listen to them, give them your undivided attention, and ask questions that are related to what they are sharing. Avoid assuming and “diagnosing” your peers; sometimes they just want someone to listen to them.
ENCOURAGE ACTION. Help them focus on simple things like eating, sleeping, and exercising to feel better. If they still feel down, let them know that it is okay to seek support from a mental healthcare provider.
CHECK IN. It is normal that you won't always be there for your male friend or loved one who is going through a rough time, but checking in on them from time to time is a good way to help them feel like they are not alone. Scheduling a meet-up over coffee or Samgyup is a good activity to try.
Our country has improved a lot since the passing of the Mental Health Law (RA 11036) in 2018. While our awareness and services may not yet match those in our neighboring countries and the west, they have significantly improved, and we have high expectations for further improvements in the coming years.
As we raise our voices and efforts toward improved mental health services and programs, may we continue to address the stigma of men reaching out for mental health support.
Reference:
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