Although 1 out of 5 adults suffers from mental health diseases, men are less likely to ask for help
Although 1 out of 5 adults suffers from mental health diseases, men are less likely to ask for help
HAS Loma Linda Behavioral Health InstituteSammy Martinez, the approved clinical social worker sees an increasing number of men who cross the doors for the first time, seeking support for their mental health. Although many men arrive anxious and uncertain, they often leave their first session by feeling a feeling of relief, having expressed something they were afraid of sharing for too long.
For men who hesitate to start therapy, Martinez says that the search for help often stems from cultural messages that they have internalized over time, including sentences like:
“There is so much shame to ask for help,” says Martinez. “Instead of reaching out, many men suffer in silence and turn to things like alcohol and drugs to face.”
But the statistics give to think. According to the National Institute of Mental Health1 in 5 adults in the United States suffers from mental illness each year. Among men, the consequences of unrealized mental health problems can be particularly serious:
These figures indicate a serious societal problem, which slowly begins to improve thanks to more awareness and by teaching young generations messages like: “It is normal not to go well” and “vulnerability is a force, not weakness”.
Men looking for therapy help can learn to identify and regulate a range of emotions with acquired skills, including emotional regulation, tolerance for distress and interpersonal efficiency skills.
“I hear countless stories of relatives of patients talking about notable changes and feeling more emotionally and supported more with and around them,” explains Martinez.
If you or someone you care about these challenges, Martinez’s message is clear: take the risk and take the courage to look for the next steps to become a better you.