Breaking Down Barriers: Men's Mental Health and Movember
Episode Overview
Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues compared to women. Toxic masculinity and societal expectations hinder men from opening up. Creating a non-judgmental environment can encourage men to seek support. Framing seeking help as a strong decision can reduce stigma. Early intervention in mental health issues leads to better outcomes.
It's okay to ask for help, even if you are a man.
Movember is here, and NHS Practitioner Health is championing men's mental health with their Talk Mo With PH campaign. In this episode, Zaid Al-Najjar, a GP and medical director, joins experienced therapists Simon Lyne and Ruth Dayton to discuss the barriers men face in seeking mental health support. The trio tackles the impact of toxic masculinity, societal expectations, and the stigma surrounding men's mental health.
They share personal experiences from their practice, highlighting how men often present later for help and are more likely to struggle with addiction and suicidal thoughts. Ruth points out that men often mask their true issues with superficial problems, while Simon discusses the difficulty men have in expressing emotions like vulnerability and anger. The episode offers practical tips on encouraging men to seek help, such as creating a non-judgmental environment and framing seeking help as a strong and smart decision.
Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone with a male friend or family member struggling with mental health, this episode provides valuable insights and advice. So, why not give it a listen? It might just be the nudge someone needs to reach out for support.