To have a good mental health is as important like the oxygen that we breath... and this blog is all about Men and Mental Health - an "issue" that is not discussed or talked about enough. We, women, have important men in our lives- Father, partner, sons, brothers, friends and uncles. Their health and mental well-being matters, but do we pay close attention to it !?
To face any type of mental issue is difficult for anyone as it can affect people of any age with different symptoms which may or may not be recognizable. For example, men who are in not a healthy state of mind may seem grumpy, angrier and irritable than usual, rather than being sad or withdrawn. Even men may not have any clue about the disorder they have, whereas some may see it as a sign of weakness.
There is no discrimination when it comes to mental health conditions but may look different in men. Certain circumstances like gender stigmatization or stereotyping, can make it tricky for both healthcare professionals and one or near and dear ones to recognise an underlying problem.
So, here is the whole lowdown on all things related to men’s mental well-being, right from recognising symptoms to the right kind of therapy that one can avail. The most commonly diagnosed mental conditions in men include:
This question arises with a common misconception that prevails till date, "women are more likely and susceptible to experience mental health condition than men". But statistical reports have shown that men are more in number in committing suicides, than women. Experts, have been acknowledging the various complex factors including hormonal and biological factors, coping strategies among others that can have impact and how one may experience.
According to National Institute of Mental Health, men have always found it difficult to speak about their mental health, as it more likely goes against their stigmatised up bringing. Dr. Elena, consultant psychologist and co-founder of The Chelsea Psychology Clinic, explains that many cultures have an extraordinarily strong cultural stereotypes as of how men should behave, to be “strong”, letting out their emotional side was a sign of weakness, and that they will be looked down for it.
Since their childhood, males find themselves grappling with antiquated ideologies and perspectives about gender, and this very reason poses as a prime contributor in coping with mental health issues. Childhood and late adolescence are a period where most of the male are exposed to entrenched gender norms, which later on persists into their adult life, thereby shaping and moulding mental health and help-seeking. In addition to this, The American Journal of Public Health in 2022 published an article, which states that men who have internalized stigma since their childhood were more likely at a risk for heightened severe mental illness and face other challenges as they were less likely to open and seek help for their psychological issues.
Owing to a mix of biological and social
factor, men and women may or may not experience the same bout of experiences
and symptoms. It varies and includes:
First and foremost, one should not be embarrassed to ask for help. Mental health issues are quite common than one can realize, and they do not form the basis for discrimination anywhere. The conditions are pretty capable of taking toll on anyone regardless of race, religion or sex.
Even the small adjustments or changes in one’s lifestyle can have a great impact on how you feel daily.
Try to be active – Exercise is known to be a great mood booster, as the brain releases endorphins as we are on the move.
Stay social- Interacting with family and friends helps in relieving feelings of loneliness.
Relaxation techniques: Breathing exercise, gardening, meditation and visualisations. Find out what calms you down and gives you a sense of relief. Restricting alcohol consumption: Though it may be tempting to consume alcohol when in a state of depression or extreme stress, try to limit alcohol intake, especially during these situations, and you will be able to witness the tremendous changes for yourself.
One might think they are all alone in this
struggle. But it is an absolute no, there’s whole lot of people and network,
who first notice that something is wrong with you, and who are ready to help
you in every possible way to make you feel a whole lot better.
Obviously, one cannot expect miracles to happen when it concerns a person’s mental health! It is a sensitive subject, which makes it even more difficult to speak about it for anyone and it takes time, to see changes happening.
Recent reports and surveys have shown that males are more likely to die by suicide in comparison to females. This disparity may be in part due to the greater negligence in men to speak about and seek mental health help owing to internalized so called “masculine behaviour” and expectations.
So, it is best advised to speak out, to our loved ones, friends or mental health specialist, a better way that will help one in managing their mental health.
Work-related pressure - 32%
Financial pressures- 31%
Health concerns – 23%
“I’m too embarrassed “
“I don’t want to appear weak in front of
everyone”
“Can’t handle the negative stigma
surrounding these type of things”
“I don’t wish to be a burden to
everyone”
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by extreme mood swings, ranging from manic highs to depressive lows. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and available treatments is crucial for those affected by this condition.
The symptoms of bipolar disorder are the dramatic shifts in mood and energy levels. During manic episodes, individuals may experience:
On the other hand, depressive episodes are marked by:
The severity and duration of these mood episodes can vary greatly from person to person, and the patterns can be unpredictable.
The exact causes of bipolar disorder are not fully understood, but research suggests that it is a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Some of the potential factors that may contribute to the development of bipolar disorder include:
It is important to note that bipolar disorder is a complex condition, and the interplay of these factors can vary from person to person.
Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for bipolar disorder. The primary approach typically involves a combination of:
It is crucial for individuals with bipolar disorder to consult a psychiatrist and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and symptoms.
If you or someone you know is struggling with bipolar disorder, remember that you are not alone. With the right support and treatment, it is possible to manage the condition and live a fulfilling life.
In recent years, mental health has emerged as a major worry for many people. Ever wondered why? The reasons may differ, and the list continues, such as personal relationships, work-related concerns, and financial restraints. So, to highlight the importance of mental health, World Mental Health Day is marked every year on October 10th. This year's theme centers on our mental health at work. Problems are inevitable in everyone's lives, especially in our workplace, and might have an impact on their mental health. Everything depends on how we handle it, and in this article, we have provided you with three random activities to increase your mindfulness and maintain a pleasant mental wellbeing.
The theme for this year, "Mental Health at Work," emphasizes the vital connection between mental health and our workplaces. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that safe, healthy working settings can safeguard mental health, but unhealthy surroundings, such as stigma, discrimination, and poor working conditions, can pose serious hazards.
WHO reports that since 60% of the total world’s population is at work, urgent action is required to support mental health at work. And that includes, involving workers, employers, and everyone at work have knowledge about mental health conditions in the course of decisions.
Now, let us explore the three random, simple, and effective exercises that can be integrated into your daily routine to help improve your mental well-being and potentially contribute to a healthy working environment and lifestyle.
This mindfulness exercise helps you to focus yourself on the present moment by involving all your senses: Sight, smell, sound, taste, and touch. This aids in stress relief, improved focus, and improved emotional regulation.
How to do it:
By incorporating this technique into your daily routine, it can help calm your nervous system, offer support to those with PTSD, help ease social anxiety, and assist with grounding.
A routine activity that can transform into a mindfulness exercise is Mindful Walking. It offers numerous benefits like reducing blood pressure, providing better sleep, managing stress, and so on.
How to do it:
This way of practicing our routine activity helps to improve our mindfulness and is beneficial for both physical and mental health.
This exercise can help release tension that you may not be realizing, and also promote awareness of physical sensations.
How to do it:
Regular practice of the body scan can improve your ability to recognize and release physical tension, leading to better overall relaxation and stress management.
As we celebrate World Mental Health Day 2024, remember that mindfulness is a skill that improves with practice. Incorporating these exercises into your daily routine, both at work and in your personal life, can significantly enhance your mental well-being. While these mindfulness exercises can be powerful tools for maintaining mental health, it is important to recognize when you might need additional support. Consider consulting with a mental wellness therapist online for personalized guidance and strategies tailored to your specific needs. Start small, be patient with yourself, and gradually build your mindfulness muscles. By investing in your mental health, you contribute to a healthier future for yourself and potentially a more positive work environment for all.
In today's fast-paced world, navigating the challenges of work, relationships, and daily responsibilities can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. However, taking proactive steps to nurture your mental well-being can make a significant difference in your overall quality of life. In this blog, we'll explore five effective ways to improve your mental health, providing you with practical tips and insights to help you lead a happier, healthier life. Whether you're dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, or just looking to boost your mood, these five simple yet powerful ways can help with your journey to better mental health.
Sleep is the unsung hero of mental health, and during those precious hours of sleep, our brain absorbs emotions, consolidates memories, and replenishes for the coming day. To maximize the benefits of sleep, maintain a consistent sleep schedule, including weekends. Create a peaceful evening ritual that includes a warm bath, light reading, and gentle stretches. Keep the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime, and minimize caffeine and alcohol consumption, particularly in the evening. Aim for 7-9 hours of good sleep per night. If you are constantly unable to sleep, consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia.
Exercise isn't just for physical fitness; it is also a powerful mood booster and stress reliever. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, improve cognitive function, enhance sleep quality, and boost energy levels. And the good news is that you do not have to become a fitness freak to gain these benefits. Begin with activities you enjoy, like
Aim to complete at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Remember that consistency trumps intensity when it comes to mental health benefits.
Having meaningful interactions is essential for maintaining mental wellness. To develop your social relationships, connect with friends and family on a regular basis, even if it is just a quick text or phone call. Join clubs or groups that interest you, volunteer in your community, or try therapy or support groups if you're having trouble connecting. Remember, quality is more important than quantity. So, concentrate on making a few deep, meaningful connections rather than maintaining a large social network.
Gratitude is more than just a buzzword; it is an effective technique for shifting the way you feel. Regular gratitude practice can lead to increased happiness, reduced symptoms of depression, improved sleep quality, and increased resilience to stress.
Make gratitude a daily habit:
Gratitude is not about disregarding life's difficulties; it is about finding balance and perspective in both the good and the bad.
Research shows that learning new skills can help your psychological well-being by boosting self-confidence and self-esteem, developing a feeling of purpose, and helping to connect with others.
Even if you think you don't have enough time or don't need to learn new things, there are numerous ways to incorporate learning into your life. You could try some of the following like:
Here are some signs that might indicate it is time to consider therapy:
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms consistently, it might be beneficial to consult a mental wellness therapist. They can provide specialized support tailored to your unique needs, helping you navigate challenges and work towards improved mental well-being.
Seeking professional help has never been more convenient. At HealthSy, we have simplified the process of connecting with mental health experts. Our platform allows you to browse and select a mental wellness therapist that best suits your needs and preferences. The best part? You can access high-quality mental health support without leaving your home.
Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, or just need someone to talk to, HealthSy makes it easy to get the support you deserve. Take control of your mental well-being today – book a session with a qualified mental wellness therapist and start your journey towards a healthier mind, all from the comfort and privacy of your own space.
Eating disorders can affect people at any stage of
their lives. Individuals undergoing emotional distress may unknowingly develop
unhealthy eating habits, resulting in negative impacts on their overall
well-being. The prevalence of eating disorders has substantially increased on a
global scale, from 3.4% to 7.8%. Therefore, it is essential to address this
issue early to help individuals recognize the signs and symptoms that can
impact their overall health.
An eating disorder is a mental health issue defined by
abnormal eating behavior that affects individuals' physical and mental health.
It can be treatable, but if left untreated, the eating disorder may lead to
serious complications.
The development of an eating disorder can be
influenced by various factors, such as
Understanding eating disorders is crucial for
providing the right support to those affected. These disorders come in various
forms, each unique to the individual experiencing them. Here are some common
eating disorders:
Individuals with this eating disorder have a fear of
gaining weight; they constantly strive to become extremely thin. Thus, they
will severely restrict their food intake and exercise excessively. Common
symptoms of anorexia nervosa include:
Bulimia Nervosa, also known as bulimia, is a disorder
in which a person engages in episodes of binging, during which one eats a large
amount of food and then purges (self-induced vomiting or exercising excessively
to get rid of the extra calories). It typically begins in late teens or early
adulthood. Symptoms include:
Binge eating is more like Bulimia. Typically,
individuals with binge eating disorder consume large amounts of food
frequently, but they do not attempt to purge the calories afterward. Instead,
they often experience discomfort and may struggle with feelings of shame,
regret, guilt, or depression. Symptoms of binge eating disorder include:
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, also known
as ARFID, is a condition where individuals avoid certain foods or have severely
restricted eating habits. ARFID can occur in people of any age, and the
symptoms can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include:
Pica is a condition in which some people have cravings
for non-food items, which include paper, soap, paint, chalk, or ice. It affects
people of all genders and ages; however, it is most commonly seen in pregnant
women, children, and people who have developmental disabilities such as autism.
Untreated Pica can result in serious health consequences, including infections,
choking, and intestinal blockages.
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa,
and binge eating disorders, can pose significant threats to one's physical
health. These may include:
Individuals experiencing eating issues should seek
help and support from professionals. Ignoring the issue can lead to serious
consequences.
Every individual with an eating
disorder requires a personalized and tailored care plan. The treatment plan may
sometimes involve a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Finding the
right healthcare professional is crucial to ensure that the treatment plan is
effective and addresses the specific needs of the individual.
Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that affects an individual’s life as well as the lives of people around them. This severity comes from the fact that it is chronic and can't be completely cured, but worry not, it can be treated using various medications that are available to alleviate its severity.
Generally, people with schizophrenia will incur delusions and
hallucinations, disconnecting from reality. This illness has the potential to affect
how a person thinks, feels, and acts, which is why it requires immediate and
effective medical attention from a psychiatrist or a psychologist.
Now, in
this article let us get to know about schizophrenia symptoms in detail so
that it can be diagnosed and treated at the earliest.
Keep
reading!
Many people
with schizophrenia don't realize they have it as the symptoms differ from
person to person and usually, it starts showing up in early adulthood. These
symptoms might be more intense at first but often become less severe as the
person gets older.
Now, let's
look at some of the symptoms of schizophrenia in more detail.
Categories
of Schizophrenia
The two
categories of schizophrenia include the following:
Positive Schizophrenia
symptoms are the unusual symptoms that arise when a person gets strange
feelings and thoughts. These are commonly called psychotic symptoms.
Experiencing these symptoms is the most common part of schizophrenia.
Negative Schizophrenia
symptoms include the lack of absence in the feelings that affect the normal
functioning in people. For instance, an individual might lose interest in being
active or appear to avoid expressing their emotions. The list below
shows some cases of negative symptoms:
Delusions
are false beliefs that a person firmly holds onto despite evidence to the
contrary. These beliefs are often irrational and can't be explained by cultural
or religious norms. Delusions can take various forms, such as paranoid
delusions (believing someone is out to harm them), grandiose delusions
(believing they have exceptional abilities or importance), or somatic delusions
(believing their body is diseased or altered).
This typical
schizophrenia symptom can bring problems in a person’s relationships, work life,
family, etc., and must be treated effectively to avoid any critical circumstances.
A
hallucination is a sensory perception that seems real but is created by the
mind rather than by external stimuli. Furthermore, individuals experiencing
this schizophrenia symptom often find it more disturbing and
irritable affecting their daily lives. There are various methods of
experiencing hallucinations that occur in any of the five senses—sight,
hearing, taste, touch, or smell, but hearing voices is found to be the most
prevalent one for many individuals.
A person
may speak and think unusually, bouncing from one topic to another. As a result,
it could be challenging for others to understand what the
affected person is saying. There may also be issues with memory and the
ability to comprehend and use knowledge.
This could
show up in a lot of different ways, from acting like a child or being irritable
all the time. Things are hard to do when behavior isn't aimed at a goal.
Behaviors can include - not following directions, having the wrong or strangest
posture, not responding at all, or moving around a lot for no reason.
Because of
all these Schizophrenia symptoms, you may:
For schizophrenia, it's important to consult a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders.
Summing Up
If you're
concerned that someone you love or know might have schizophrenia symptoms, you
should communicate with that person about it. You can't compel someone to get
professional help, but you can support and help them to do so
by finding or suggesting to consult with a doctor immediately.
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