For generations, many men were taught to keep their emotions to themselves, a stigma health professionals say can make it harder for them to talk about mental health or seek care. During June’s focus on men’s health, health professionals are encouraging men to challenge that stigma and prioritize their mental well-being.
Dr. William Pickard, a primary care physician at CHRISTUS Health, said one of the most important steps men can take is talking with someone and seeking medical care when needed.
Pickard said some common mental health challenges men face include depression, anxiety and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In many cases, men may experience symptoms for years without recognizing them as mental health conditions.
Pickard said friends and family members also can play an important role by encouraging men to talk about mental health concerns. Creating a safe, supportive environment and recognizing warning signs can help connect men with support before symptoms worsen.
Warning signs can include withdrawing from friends, losing interest in hobbies, becoming more irritable or keeping to themselves, according to Pickard.
Untreated mental health conditions can also affect physical health, causing symptoms like panic attacks and shortness of breath. This can also lead to additional complications if left unaddressed.
“They get chest pain or have a lot of stomach issues — diarrhea, constipation — all of that can be linked to mental health,” Pickard said.
Along with seeking professional care, Pickard said regular exercise, quality sleep and a balanced diet can support mental health.
He also encourages people to pay close attention to men who have experienced major medical events, such as strokes or heart attacks, as they may face an increased risk of mental health challenges during recovery.
Ultimately, Pickard said he wants men to know that struggling with mental health is common and seeking help should never be viewed as a sign of weakness.
“It’s okay to ask for help,” he said. “You should go to your physician, you should go to therapy and you should start the conversation. The world would truly be a better place if we did.”