June is Men’s Health Month, and while anyone can experience depression or anxiety, men tend to put off seeking help when they need it.
“Men often try to run away from what’s bothering them,” explains Adam Boland, PhD, a clinical psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic. “Whether it’s spending more time at work or immersing themselves in a project, they reach an unhealthy level of ignoring whatever the problem is.”
Boland said men first need to acknowledge they have a problem before they can begin to take steps to address mental illness.
Many of the signs of depression and anxiety in men and women overlap, but men often experience headaches and other physical symptoms as well.
Men are also more likely to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as drugs and alcohol, to deal with their emotions.
To maintain their mental health, Boland said men need to find friends and family they feel comfortable sharing things with.
Writing or journaling is another effective way to channel difficult feelings.
Boland stressed that there’s no shame in seeking help from a mental health professional if feelings of depression or anxiety become uncontrollable.
“Receiving mental health treatment is not a weakness – it’s a sign of strength. It’s unhealthy to pretend your issues don’t exist,” Boland said.
Boland added that more men are seeking therapy, and he encourages other men to seek help if they need it.
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