By normalizing emotional openness and support, experts are working to help men recognize the value of therapy and the importance of self-care.
Theresa M. Miskimen Rivera, M.D.
President, American Psychiatric Association
What are the biggest mental health challenges that men face today?
I believe that the biggest challenge is how often it goes unrecognized, undiagnosed, and untreated. Studies reflect that men are, unfortunately, far less likely to seek treatment for mental health issues and are more likely to die by suicide when compared to women.
How can therapy be made more approachable and accessible for men?
I think that the first thing is to normalize. We need to normalize the conversation about mental health in general. We can also let men know that they’re not alone. Remind them that it’s okay to seek help, just as other men have done before and will continue to do. In addition, educate men on the various types of therapy and the importance of finding the one that best suits their individual needs. In my practice, I find it very helpful to remind men when they’re seeking treatment for mental health issues that it’s not a sign of weakness. I think that really sets the tone, and it just normalizes them coming in.
How do societal expectations of masculinity impact men’s mental health?
Men often hold notions of masculinity that reflect societal expectations. It’s about self-reliance and being stubborn, not appearing vulnerable at any time. It’s a conditioning of keeping their emotions to themselves, and toughing it out. Especially during difficult times, these traditional male characteristics could actually lead to feelings of isolation, negative self-perception, and even depression or anxiety.
How has psychiatry evolved in addressing men’s mental health more specifically?
There are various approaches that we utilize when we are treating men seeking mental health care. First of all, we confront that stigma directly. We want to make sure that men seeking mental health services feel both safe and supported. We also personalize treatment, considering unique challenges, backgrounds, and the specifics of why that person is coming to treatment. We also encourage the utilization of peer support groups to reduce feelings of isolation. We recognize the influence of that societal expectation of masculinity, so we focus on normalizing emotional vulnerability. It’s okay to express that and also embrace self-care. Men have difficulty just taking care of themselves, so those are the things that we take into account in men’s mental health specifically.
What are some of the risks and benefits of medication for mental health? When is it most appropriate to take medication for therapy?
We know that for the majority of mental health conditions, the most effective treatment is actually a combination of medication and therapy. You’re treating both the biological and psychological aspects of mental health. What we can offer men coming into treatment is the benefits related specifically to symptom relief. You have improved mood, reduced anxiety, and better overall functioning. I’ve been in practice for over 30 years, and my clinical experience, the combination of medication and therapy, is the most effective treatment.
To the men reading this: I would encourage you to keep up your social connections. Friends and family will not see this as a burden; they may even be able to help you find the right care. It could involve first, maybe a primary care provider, and then they might even send you to somebody like me, a psychiatrist. You can find additional information on psychiatry.org, and most importantly, if you are in crisis and you need immediate help, call 988. That’s the Suicide & Crisis Hotline. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a true sign of courage and strength.
