Individuals suffering from mental health problems or thinking of suicide can contact the Mental Health Mental Health Support Service (03-2935 9935 / 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 / 019-2615999 on WhatsApp); Jakims (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) Family, Social, and Community Care Center (011-1959 8214 on WhatsApp); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929, their website or email sam@befrienders.org.my).
Every year, suicide ranks among the top 20 causes of death worldwide in people of all ages.
It is responsible for more than 700,000 deaths, the equivalent of one suicide every 40 seconds.
These statistics are not just numbers; they are friends, family members, partners, parents, sons and daughters.
But when we look at statistics, there is a significant difference between the sexes.
The number of suicides is much higher among men than women in all age groups in the world.
To be a ‘manly’ man
Toxic masculinity, sadly, is a term we all know.
The concept has been around for a long time, but is now being discussed pretty much everywhere.
And for good reason – toxic masculinity is essentially a “macho” and “red blooded” culture where men are expected to be tough and have typical “masculine” traits.
Researchers define toxic masculinity through behaviors and beliefs in part as:
- Suppressing emotions or masking stress
- Maintaining an appearance of toughness
- Using violence as an indicator of power (e.g. behavior of tough guys)
Simply put, toxic masculinity is the result of decades, perhaps centuries, of society teaching boys that they cannot and should not express emotions openly, and that when they do, they are weak and “feminine”.
These boys then internalize these feelings and grow into men who have been taught that they can be nothing less than “masculine”.
According to the American Psychological Association, these norms built into our culture have been linked to aggression and violence, which has placed men at “disproportionate risk for school discipline, academic challenges and health inequalities” including cardiovascular problems, substance abuse and suicide.
In addition to toxic masculinity, there is also a massive stigma surrounding mental health that is being deconstructed.
Due to the mass discussion on social media around the world, more and more of us understand the importance of mental health and can open up, although there is still a long way to go.
We have to do the same with toxic masculinity.
Confidentiality assured
Unfortunately, men who have internalized traditional views about masculinity not only see their doctor less often, but are also less honest about their medical history and symptoms.
It can be incredibly daunting to seek medical advice, especially when it comes to something so private.
However, if you do need help, contact your GP to discuss how you are feeling.
Everything that is discussed is kept confidential so you don’t have to worry about someone finding out.
They can recommend medications, lifestyle changes, therapies, and support.
If you’re having trouble getting in touch and are hesitant to take the first step, health apps provide access to online doctor appointments that allow you to speak to your doctor via video call.
This can be especially important for those who are held back by discomfort and offers a level of discretion.
Not only can you have virtual access to medical advice, but you can also order your prescription medication and have it delivered to you.
With toxic masculinity and the general mental health stigma keeping many people from seeking help, research suggests that the discretion enabled by technology can help improve access to mental health services.
What you can do
Masculinity can be redeemed.
It is time to regain its meaning and recreate it as a concept of compassion and caring.
Here are some tips on how to build trust with those in need and encourage the men you love to better share their feelings:
> Avoid playing down men’s mental health
This is probably one of the most important and effective points to consider.
Avoid saying things that weaken a man’s feelings, such as “You sound like a woman,” “Stop being a girl,” “Men up,” and “Why are you so emotional?”
Instead, acknowledge their feelings, show empathy, and offer support.
Finding the right words can be tricky and nobody expects you to get quality advice.
If you find you don’t know what to say, then it is best to just listen without judgment.
> Check out friends and family
A visit to their home, by phone or text message shows that you are there for them and that they can count on your support.
Feeling alone is a big symptom of depression, so let them know they aren’t.
> Encourage men to express emotions
Expressing emotions and crying are normal reactions for all people, regardless of gender.
Don’t associate crying or stereotypically feminine traits with weakness.
Processing emotions makes us human – encourage the men in your life to acknowledge this.
Feeling and showing feelings are not bad things.
Both femininity and masculinity can include compassion, empathy, and caring and should not be mutually exclusive.
Please seek medical advice if necessary.
source https://www.bisayanews.com/2021/09/19/when-machismo-prevents-men-from-seeking-mental-health-help/
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