Men’s mental health has been a hot topic lately, but there's still a lot of stigma and hesitation among men to discuss or talk about it. Society expects men to be tough, unfeeling, and emotionless beings, these unrealistic expectations cause them to bottle up their feelings and emotions. But we can’t stress enough that looking after your mental health is a necessity for everyone, irrespective of your gender.  

Today, we want to take you through a practical guide on how you can improve and prioritize your mental health as a man. We will help you understand and identify symptoms of mental illness and also some mental health tips for men to help you maintain a healthy state of mind. 

What Is Mental Health? 

Let's go back to the basics for a second and understand what exactly mental health is. Mental health is all about our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, as well as, how we manage stress, communicate with others, and make decisions.  

Taking care of our mental health is essential at every age, from childhood to adulthood, hence it's important to prioritize it for our overall well-being. 

Now let’s look at some common mental health issues that are commonly found in men.  

Common Mental Health Issues In Men 

Men can experience several mental health issues, some of them are: 

• Depression: Constant feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest. 

• Anxiety: Showing symptoms of constant worry and fear about daily life situations. 

• Stress: Emotional and mental strain caused by demanding life and work circumstances. 

• Substance Abuse: The harmful use of alcohol and other illicit drugs. 

Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For 

Men experience different symptoms for mental health issues than women, and they are more likely to show physical symptoms than emotional ones. Some of the common signs include: 

• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns. 

• Feeling more irritable, aggressive, or angry than usual. 

• Loss of interest in work, hobbies, or social activities. 

• Physical symptoms like headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain without a clear cause. 

• Turning to alcohol or other drugs to cope. 

• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness. 

Coping Strategies For Men 

• Talk About It 

One of the biggest challenges men face is shying away from speaking out about their feelings. Talking about your emotions with friends, family, or a therapist can provide a lot of emotional relief and alleviate stress.   

• Stay Physically Active 

Exercise can help manage your mental health issues effectively. Physical activity releases endorphins from our bodies, which reduces stress and anxiety. Whether it’s running, lifting weights, playing sports, or even walking, find an activity you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine. 

• Prioritize Sleep 

Sleep has a lot of impact on mental health. Poor sleep can lead to anxiety and depression. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a peaceful environment, and avoid using phones or tablets before bedtime.    

• Maintain A Balanced Diet 

A healthy diet plays a crucial role in mental health. Eat a balanced diet with lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Avoid excessive alcohol and reduce your intake of processed oily and sugary foods. 

• Practice Mindfulness And Relaxation Techniques 

Mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques such as deep breathing can help manage stress and anxiety. These practices encourage you to focus on the present moment and reduce negative thought patterns. 

• Stay Connected 

Surround yourself with strong and meaningful relationships with friends and family. Social support can reduce stress and help you cope with difficult times. Make an effort to stay connected, even if it’s just a phone call or a cup of coffee. 

• Seek Professional Help 

If you’re struggling with your mental health, it’s important to seek professional help. Therapists, counsellors, and psychiatrists can offer support, guidance, and treatment options. Just like you visit a doctor for a check-up, visit a therapist to talk about what's weighing you down.  

• Engage In Hobbies And Interests 

Pursuing hobbies and interests can provide satisfaction, mental relief, and joy. Whether it’s playing a musical instrument, painting, gardening, or playing sports, engaging in activities you love can uplift your mood. 

• Limit Alcohol And Other Drugs 

While it might be tempting to use alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with stress, these substances can adversely affect your mental health. Limit your alcohol intake to maintain a healthy mind and body. 

• Learn To Manage Stress Stress is a part of life, but how you handle it can make a big difference. Identify what's stressing you out and find ways to manage it effectively, whether through time management, setting boundaries, or seeking support from others. 

Remember, taking care of your mental health is a continuous process, and it’s okay to seek help along the way.  

By putting your mental health first using these coping strategies, you can lead happier and healthier lives. You are not alone, we at Unreveald are here to support you on your journey towards better mental well-being. 

Come talk to us at www.unreveald.com. You will find friends here who understand what you are going through. By speaking out about your issues, you will not only feel lighter but also feel heard. Don't worry all posts are anonymous on our platform. Join us in normalizing conversations about men’s mental health. It’s time to “ Man Up” for better mental health!