November is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. It’s a campaign with one aim: to raise awareness of the pressures associated with identifying as a man and how it can impact mental health. (1)
Why don’t men talk about their mental health?
We all know the cliché masculine stereotype. It’s always a big macho bloke who’s strong, unemotional and never ever cries. This stereotype is enforced by phrases like “man up” or “boys don’t cry”, it’s no wonder that 40% of men won't talk about their mental health. (2)
Did you know 75% of all UK suicides are male? (3) It’s why charities like Movember encourage you check in with your mates, to remind them they’re not alone. Research has found that men who can’t speak openly about their emotions are less likely to realise they’re struggling.
This is your sign to go and check in with a pal, whether he’s the life of the party or simply hasn’t been himself lately. Mental health affects us all.
What are the signs of depression in men
Depression can look different for everyone, but here is a list of things to look out for if you think he might be depressed:
- Anger, irritability, or aggressiveness
- Feeling anxious, restless, or “on edge”
- Loss of interest in work, family, or once-pleasurable activities
- Feeling very tired, not being able to sleep, or sleeping too much
- Overeating or not wanting to eat at all
- Inability to meet the responsibilities of work, caring for family, or other important activities
- Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts.
For more info go to: National Institute of Mental Health.
How to help someone with Depression
If you’re worried about a mate, the best thing you can do is talk to him. Not sure how? The charity Time to Talk has got your back with this guide. (4).
- Ask Twice – Did he say he was fine? Ask again to make sure. Read between the lines – Is he saying that he’s been stressed lately, or not feeling like himself?
- If he’s inviting you to go for a drink one on one, he might want to have a proper chat.
- Are your jokes not going down so well? Lose the banter and ask him how he is.
- Let your mate know you’re there for him!
(This is a condensed version of the advice given out by Time to Change).
Men’s Mental Health Resources
Having poor mental health can be lonely; luckily there are plenty of initiatives to combat isolation whilst simultaneously raising awareness for men’s mental health. Here’s just a few examples of the varied support out there.
Men’s Sheds:
This is a wonderful association that brings isolated individuals together to work on DIY projects. Men’s sheds are all about connection, friendship and learning new skills as well as providing a safe space to talk about mental health. Go on give it go!
For more information go to Men's Sheds.
The Lion’s Barber Collective
The Lion’s Barber Collective is an international community of highly skilled barbers who have come together to educate and raise awareness on suicide prevention. These barbers have undergone training to recognise symptoms of mental health and be able to signpost Indvidual's to services for support.
Click here to find your local barber which doubles as a designated safe space.
CALM
Campaign against living Miserably is a charity that challenges male stereotypes and encourages men to ask for help. Here is a summary of what they do.
- CALM offers a free helpline and webchat open from 5pm-midnight every day.
- Helpline: 0800 58 58 58
- Work with communities to raise awareness on mental health and encourage others to share their experiences to get the help they need.
- Campaigns to raise suicide awareness and encourage help seeking behaviour particularly in men.
- Click here to find out more.
Andy’s Man Club
Andy’s Man Club is a space where men can come together to talk, you don’t have to be suicidal or have a mental health condition to join they just want to get men talking.
For more information: click here
We at Brown Paper Packages focus on wellbeing and supporting those in your life suffering with depression or experiencing issues with their mental health. View our curated care packages and gift boxes for men.
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For those in crisis please contact Samaritans on 116 123 or emergency services on 999 or 111.
Citations
- https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/campaigns/mens-mental-health-month
- https://www.priorygroup.com/blog/40-of-men-wont-talk-to-anyone-about-their-mental-health
- https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/
- https://www.time-to-change.org.uk/mental-health-stigma/ask-twice/supporting-men
By Christina @ Brown Paper Packages
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