June marks Men’s Health Month, and while anyone can experience depression or anxiety, men often tend to push off seeking help when needed.
“Oftentimes we see men kind of escape from whatever it is that’s bothering them,” explained Dr. Adam Borland, a clinical psychologist with Cleveland Clinic. “Whether it’s more time at work or losing themselves in a project, it’s to an unhealthy level where they’re ignoring whatever the problem is.”
Borland said men first need to recognize there’s a problem to start taking steps to address a mental health condition.
While many signs of depression and anxiety in men and women overlap, men will often experience headaches or other physical symptoms as well.
Men also tend to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms like drugs or alcohol to deal with their emotions.
To keep their mental health in check, Borland said men need to identify friends or family members they’re comfortable sharing things with.
Writing or journaling can be another effective way to get difficult emotions out there.
If feelings of depression or anxiety become overwhelming, Borland stressed there’s no shame in getting help from a mental health professional.
“Seeking mental health treatment is not a weakness. In fact, we can argue that it’s a sign of strength. It’s unhealthy to pretend your issues don’t exist,” Borland said.
Borland added more and more men are coming to therapy, and he encourages others to seek help if needed.