Men’s Health Week | 5 Mental Health Issues Affecting Men

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), there are gender differences between men and women when it comes to suicide rate. In fact, suicide is most common among middle-aged white men.

While the range of men’s mental health issues can vary from person to person, there are five prevalent mental health problems that affect men.

1. Depression & Thoughts Of Suicide

Many mental illnesses diagnosed in men lead to symptoms of depression and suicidal ideations. Due to the higher rates of suicide in men than women, successful suicide attempts are more likely as well.

Those struggling with certain mental health conditions may suffer from serious side effects such as depressive episodes which can lead to suicidal thoughts. Depression is a symptom of several mental health disorders and a risk factor for suicide.

Suicidal ideations should be taken seriously. If you or a loved one have thoughts of suicide, contact the 988 suicide crisis hotline.

2. Anxiety Disorders

Men may be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and exhibit symptoms such as aggressiveness. They may also engage in high-risk activities such as promiscuity or the overindulgence of drugs or alcohol.

This is one of the many reasons why a substance use disorder may accompany an anxiety disorder. Men are also more likely to be diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) if they have an anxiety disorder.

Although eating disorders are seen more in women, men experience them as well. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), symptoms of anxiety related mental health disorders in men include increased worry, obsessive thoughts, and changes in mood.

3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur in men. While PTSD is seen in older veterans, men can suffer from the disorder at any age.

When a person experiences a traumatic event, they may struggle with PTSD early after the accident or exhibit symptoms months after the fact. Coping strategies for trauma can be learned with various forms of therapy at a treatment center.

4. Substance Use Disorders

Some suffering from a mental health disorder may also struggle with a substance use disorder. High-risk activities may lead a person to self medicate with alcohol or drug use.

Binge drinking and taking large quantities of drugs is a form of substance abuse which can lead to serious life-threatening health problems such as respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, or a fatal overdose.

Those with a substance use disorder and mental health disorder have co-occurring disorders which can lead to a dual diagnosis.

5. Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is found in men, as is schizophrenia. These disorders have overlapping symptoms which can leave many to be misdiagnosed.

With this bipolar disorder, physical health can also be heavily impacted due to the depressive episodes a person may experience. The depressive episodes may consist of physical symptoms such as fatigue or extreme lack of energy.

Mental Health Treatment

If you or a family member are suffering from mental illness, consider the many treatment options available to you.

At Bedrock Recovery Center, our team of healthcare professionals provide a wide-range of specialized treatment plans which include stabilization, behavioral therapy options, and psychosocial treatments like support groups and daily living skills training.

We provide peer support and place focus on the well-being of the individual. To speak with one of our mental health professionals, please contact our helpline today.