TIME TO MAKE A CHANGE

More often than not, steering through life’s ups and downs can be overwhelming, so we have developed different coping mechanisms to endure the turbulence. But they are not always healthy and can cause more infliction than good. When stress
triggers mental health concerns, it is time to discuss them and seek help.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians between 15 and 44,
and the number of suicide deaths is nearly three times higher in males than females. Over the past few years, awareness has
enhanced mental health issues men face. However, they are still more reluctant than women to actively obtain professional
guidance. But why?

As with numerous episodes in life, the reasons are multifaceted and complicated. Still, it is plausible to consider that the
social standards we abide by play an integral part. Men feel addressing their mental health problems is a sign of
vulnerability and are worried about being judged harshly by their friends and family. Consequently, they opt for making excuses
and prefer to believe the effects will fade away if ignored or suppressed. But they are gravely mistaken. Mental health professionals state that acute deterioration of mental wellbeing is initially invisible.

But high blood pressure, weaker immune systems, stomach problems, prolonged fatigue, sudden weight gain or loss,
substance abuse and suicidal thoughts are distress signals of aggravating conditions.

The pandemic made things more detrimental. But as there is a silver lining to every tragedy, it made a difference to the prevailing support system for men experiencing mental dysfunctions. Professional mental health care is rapidly
expanding today with phone counselling services, online sessions, and telehealth services that anyone can access. This form of counselling is ideal for men who prefer anonymity and visual confidentiality.

In the end, it is communication that has the power to reverse misconceptions about men’s mental wellbeing. MensLine Australia (funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services) applies more constructive vocabulary; for example, their counsellors use “mental fitness” instead of “suffering from mental health issues” or calling it “stress rather than “depression, sadness or anxiety” to encourage interaction. A transformed and spirited communication culture needs to be endorsed and applied worldwide when discussing emotional wellbeing as a display of strength, taking control of life, and bouncing back.