Think about your conversations with your friends. What do you discuss? The news, the game, your cars? Fairly standard stuff. Do you ever check in on how each other is feeling? There was a time when that would never crop up in conversation between guys and, although things are better today, many of us still find it difficult to open up about our mental health.
For some men, the pressure to appear tough and unbreakable has led to a deep stigma around discussing mental health issues, leaving many dads suffering in silence. But without sharing, nothing changes. This is why we have teamed up with Hims – which offers access to personalized treatment plans for a range of male issues based on your unique needs and goals – to help break the stigma and start having open conversations about our mental well-being.
The Importance of Openness to Mental Health in Men
Mental health is just as important as physical health, but for men, it can often be harder to admit when something is wrong. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, men are less likely than women to seek help for conditions like depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders. This reluctance often stems from societal expectations that men should be stoic, self-reliant, and strong.
However, ignoring mental health issues can lead to serious consequences. Untreated depression and anxiety can affect a man’s relationships, work, and physical health. It’s also linked to higher rates of substance abuse and suicide. In fact, men in the US die by suicide at a rate nearly four times higher than women, and many attribute this to the fact that many don’t reach out for help when they need it.
Physical Effects of Poor Mental Health
Poor mental health can also affect your physical health. People suffering from depression have reported a number of physical symptoms, including:
- Issues with sleeping on a normal schedule
- Aches and pains, such as headaches
- Fluctuations in weight
- Problems with digestion
- Decreased libido.
Stress is another outcome of poor mental health, which can lead to issues such as erectile dysfunction (ED) and hair loss. For help in these areas, check out what Hims has to offer.
Thankfully, our friends at Hims offer access to a range of doctor-trusted treatments available to aid with regrowing hair, having better sex and losing weight 100% online. When combined with counseling and other recognized mental health treatments they can help men suffering with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. But many men still struggle to take that first step towards getting help.
The Stigma Around Men and Mental Health
The stigma surrounding men’s mental health is deeply ingrained. Many men feel that admitting they’re struggling is a sign of weakness or failure. They may fear being judged or misunderstood by friends, family, or colleagues. Some may even believe they should just “tough it out,” dismissing their emotional struggles as something that will pass.
This stigma doesn’t just affect individual men—it impacts their families, too. Dads play a critical role in shaping their children’s understanding of emotions and mental health. When men bottle up their feelings, it can set a harmful example, teaching their kids that emotions should be hidden rather than expressed. Breaking this cycle starts with addressing the stigma head-on and recognizing that seeking help is not a weakness but a strength.
For some excellent resources on mental health, check out the Hims blog. It has a wealth of posts to guide you as you explore opening up about your struggles.
Breaking the Silence
So how can we begin to change the conversation around men’s mental health? The first step is education. It’s essential for men to recognize that mental health issues are common and – in many cases – manageable. Depression, anxiety, and stress are not signs of personal failure, but challenges that many people face.
Opening up to friends, family, or a professional therapist can make a huge difference. Simply talking about feelings and struggles can be a powerful way to start breaking the stigma. Online resources, support groups, and mental health apps can also provide valuable tools for men who aren’t ready to speak face-to-face.
Moving Forward
Breaking the stigma around men’s mental health won’t happen overnight, but each small step toward open dialogue helps. Prioritizing mental health can improve not only your life but the lives of those around you.
If you want to make some lifestyle changes to help you overcome some of the triggers for or symptoms of depression, Hims can help you with access to a doctor-trusted personal weight loss plan and much more.*
*Prescription products require an online consultation with a healthcare provider who will determine if a prescription is appropriate. Restrictions apply. See website for full details and important safety information.
