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men who are in not a healthy state of mind may seem grumpy, angrier and irritable than usual, rather than being sad or withdrawn.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”
Does everything feel like something in the past still plays a loop in your mind, stealing your peace of mind and causing fear? Then don't worry, you are not alone! Be it any traumatic experience, such as a natural disaster, serious accident, or personal assault, it will no doubt leave a long-lasting mark on your life. For some, a few unexpected circumstances will create serious mental health issues known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
So, what do you mean by PTSD in real terms? PTSD, also known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, is something vast and has so many things that you should know. Now, in this blog, let us get to know the PTSD meaning, signs, treatment, symptoms, and causes of PTSD.
Knowing leads to healing.
The PTSD meaning goes beyond just feeling sad or anxious after a bad event. It refers to a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing trauma. People with post-traumatic stress disorder may feel trapped in their past, haunted by memories, flashbacks, or nightmares.
PTSD meaning also includes a broad spectrum of emotional and physical symptoms that affect daily life. While it's common to experience stress after trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder occurs when that stress doesn't fade with time and instead intensifies.
There are various causes for PTSD, and a few are below:
Everyone has their own reason to have PTSD, so it varies accordingly.
One of the most critical aspects that must be noticed about PTSD is the way it occurs or reflects in everyone. The symptoms vary drastically. The following are a few prevalent ones to know:
A clinical psychologist or psychiatrist will usually diagnose the symptoms and the root cause of the PTSD. They use specific criteria based on PTSD, meaning as outlined in diagnostic manuals like the DSM-5.
It's important not to self-diagnose. What you think is anxiety or stress might be post-traumatic stress disorder, and getting the right help starts with understanding the real PTSD meaning.
There are a few best treatments that are available to treat PTSD. A few include:
Each method aims to ease the burden of post-traumatic stress disorder and help individuals reconnect with life.
Post-traumatic disorder is not something that defines who you are. It is simply a part of life's journey. Knowing the actual PTSD meaning and various other information about it would be of great help to lead a happy and healthy life. If you don't feel like things are going well, immediately seek help or visit a healthcare provider.
Mood swings are natural and are often misunderstood as a part of human emotional health. Almost every individual would experience mood swings, but their frequency, causes, and intensity vary based on the person. In both women and men, these mood swings can happen due to the complex interplay of psychological, biological, and environmental factors. So, do these mood swings happen, and how do they differ in men and women?
Let’s get to know more!
Mood swings refer to sudden and often extreme changes in an individual’s emotional state. Everybody experiences them globally. One might feel happy one minute and sad the next. These emotional shifts can be mild and severe and may happen occasionally or often, depending on the root cause. They can efficiently affect your routine lives regardless of their frequency and severity.
To understand mood swings, you must know more about the brain and the neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These chemicals significantly influence how we feel, think, or do about anything in life. The imbalance in any of these chemicals will cause you mood swings. Hormonal changes, particularly in estrogen as well as testosterone, will immediately cause mood swings.
Mood swings in women are more based on hormonal changes. The following are a few common causes:
As mood swings in women are mostly linked to psychological and biological causes, various other factors like lack of sleep, lifestyle changes, and surroundings will also play a significant role.
Although often overlooked, men also experience mood swings—though the triggers might differ.
Men might not always express their mood swings openly, making them harder to identify and address.
Mood swings are part of being human. Whether triggered by hormones, life events, or mental health conditions, they’re something everyone deals with. The good news is that mood swings can be managed effectively with greater awareness and proactive self-care.
So, the next time you or someone you love experiences mood swings, remember—it’s not about avoiding them entirely but about learning how to ride the emotional waves with balance, compassion, and resilience.
Do you feel often overwhelmed because some people seem to complete tasks more easily than you, even you put all your energy to complete the task resulting in unfinished work? This may be linked to ADHD.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting approximately 5.48 to 25.7% of general and specific adult populations of India. People with ADHD often struggle with maintaining focus, staying organized, managing their time effectively, and controlling impulsive behaviours. Addressing these symptoms with a healthcare provider is essential to improving the quality of life. This blog will let us understand ADHD and its symptoms in detail so that we can make informed decisions.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition where a person experiences a persistent pattern of inattentiveness and impulsivity, which makes it difficult for an individual to concentrate on their daily routine.
ADHD generally starts in childhood and continues after becoming an adult.
ADHD differs for each person based on their individual experiences.
ADHD symptoms are difficult to identify in adults. However, common signs include:
ADHD can be difficult to identify in adults. However, the more you understand its signs and symptoms, the better you can recognize them early.
Consulting a doctor for a better understanding of ADHD is essential for effective treatment.
There is no proper cure for ADHD. However, it can still be treated with a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
ADHD in adults is quite common, with experts estimating that it affects between 2.5% and 6.76% of adults worldwide. With the right support and resources, individuals with ADHD can develop effective strategies to manage challenges and cultivate their strengths, enabling them to thrive academically, socially, and professionally. If you think you have ADHD, consult a doctor for help.
Intellectual disability (ID) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects approximately 1-3% of the global population. It impacts both cognitive functioning and adaptive behaviour, beginning before age 18. Let's explore this condition in depth to better understand its nature, causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Intellectual disability manifests as significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour. This means affected individuals may have difficulties with reasoning, learning, problem-solving, and everyday social and practical skills. Unlike some other cognitive conditions, ID is not a mental illness but a developmental condition that affects how quickly and effectively someone learns and adapts.
Intellectual disability can arise from various factors that occur before birth, during birth, or in early childhood. Understanding these causes is crucial for prevention, early intervention, and appropriate medical care. Many cases involve multiple contributing factors rather than a single cause.
Genetic and Inherited Conditions Many intellectual disabilities stem from genetic mutations, which can be inherited or occur spontaneously. Common genetic conditions include Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome. These chromosomal abnormalities can significantly impact cognitive development.
Infections During Pregnancy: Certain infections can severely disrupt fetal development. Conditions like toxoplasmosis, rubella, and other maternal infections can lead to developmental issues, potentially resulting in conditions like cerebral palsy that may cause intellectual disability.
Exposure to Harmful Substances: Teratogens, substances that can harm fetal development, play a significant role. These include alcohol consumption during pregnancy, tobacco use, certain medications, radiation exposure, and environmental toxins. Their presence during critical developmental periods can severely impact cognitive development.
Medical Conditions During Pregnancy: Maternal health conditions can impact fetal development. For instance, hormonal disorders like hypothyroidism or poor nutrition during pregnancy can affect cognitive development and lead to intellectual disability.
Complications during the birthing process can lead to intellectual disability. These include hypoxia (lack of oxygen to the brain), premature birth and associated complications, traumatic brain injury during delivery, and other birth complications affecting brain development.
Physical Trauma Severe head injuries from accidents and brain trauma from various causes during early childhood can result in intellectual disability. The severity of the disability often correlates with the extent of brain damage.
Infections and Diseases: Serious infections like meningitis and measles, especially when they spread to the nervous system, can cause significant brain damage leading to intellectual disability. The timing and severity of these infections play crucial roles in determining their impact.
Environmental Factors: Environmental causes include exposure to toxic substances like lead or mercury, severe malnutrition during critical developmental periods, and environmental deprivation. These factors can significantly impact brain development and cognitive function.
Medical Conditions: Various medical conditions can cause intellectual disability, including brain tumors (both cancerous and benign), severe seizure disorders, and certain types of epilepsy, such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. These conditions can affect brain development and function in varying degrees.
Despite advanced medical knowledge, there are still cases where the exact cause remains unknown, highlighting the complex nature of this condition. Understanding these various causes helps in developing prevention strategies, early intervention programs, and appropriate support systems for affected individuals and their families.
Symptoms of intellectual disability typically appear during childhood and vary in severity. Key indicators include:
Cognitive Signs:
Adaptive Behavior Issues:
While intellectual disability cannot be cured, various interventions can help individuals reach their full potential:
Early Intervention Programs: Early identification and intervention are crucial. These programs provide specialized support during critical developmental periods, helping children develop essential skills and abilities.
Educational Support: Special education services, individualized education plans (IEPs), and adaptive learning techniques can help children with ID learn effectively at their own pace.
Therapeutic Interventions:
Family
Support and Training: Parents and caregivers receive training and support to
better understand and assist their loved ones with ID. This includes strategies
for skill development and behaviour management.
Social Integration Programs: Community-based programs that promote social interaction and inclusion help individuals with ID develop social skills and build meaningful relationships.
Living with Intellectual Disability
With proper support and understanding, many individuals with intellectual disability can lead fulfilling lives:
Independence: Depending on the severity of their condition, many people with ID can achieve various levels of independence in adult life, including living semi-independently and holding jobs.
Quality of Life: Access to appropriate support services, educational opportunities, and social inclusion significantly improves quality of life for individuals with ID.
Community Integration: Many communities now offer inclusive programs and activities that allow individuals with ID to participate meaningfully in society.
Research continues to advance our understanding of intellectual disability, leading to improved interventions and support strategies. The focus has shifted from merely managing symptoms to promoting independence, dignity, and full participation in society.
A key development is the growing recognition that individuals with intellectual disability have unique strengths and abilities. Modern treatment approaches emphasize building upon these strengths while providing support for areas of challenge.
Intellectual disability presents unique challenges, but with appropriate support and intervention, affected individuals can develop their abilities and lead meaningful lives. Understanding, acceptance, and access to proper resources are crucial elements in helping people with ID reach their full potential. As our society becomes more inclusive and supportive, opportunities for individuals with intellectual disability continue to expand, with speech therapists available for home healthcare services or psychologists for consultations.
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.
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