The Importance of Men's Behavioral Health

Mental illnesses occur in both men and women, with one in five U.S. adults living with a mental illness, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

However, the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA) says men experiencing behavioral health issues are less likely to receive a diagnosis or treatment. Experts say that this is often due to stigmas around men’s behavioral health, including pressure to "tough it out," cultural challenges, socioeconomic status and fatherhood.

The ADAA says that less than half of men experiencing depression or anxiety will seek treatment. That’s why it’s important for men and their loved ones to know the symptoms of behavioral conditions such as anxiety, PTSD and depression and be able to recognize the signs.

Signs and Symptoms

You are likely familiar with the most common symptoms of depression and other behavioral health conditions, which occur in both men and women. These include:

• Sad, hopeless or empty feeling
• Exhaustion
• Trouble sleeping or increased time sleeping
• Lack of pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
• Suicidal thoughts

However, the symptoms of mental illness can be different among men and women. Just like certain health screenings are different for men, men can behave differently when trying to cope with behavioral issues.

Certain behaviors you may recognize in men experiencing a mental health disorder are:

• Efforts to "escape" daily life, like focusing more energy on work, exercise or following sports
• Increased physical ailments like headaches or stomach issues
• Increased alcohol use or misuse of drugs
• Anger, irritability or abusive behavior
• Clear mood changes, energy levels or appetite
• Restlessness or difficulty concentrating

Treatment

If you or someone you know if in a crisis, you can get help immediately by contacting the national lifeline at 988.

There are treatments for behavioral health conditions, and the most difficult step is most often asking for help. If you are experiencing symptoms, talk to your primary care provider or behavioral health provider about steps you can take.

Your primary care provider can provide you with tools to address your mental health concerns as well as connect you with a specialist.

Joy Hammond, LICSW, MSW, with EvergreenHealth Ambulatory Care has also shared a guide for talking to children about mental health, which offers great tips for addressing behavioral health concerns.