“Man Up?”: Challenging the Stereotypes of Men's Mental Health.

One of the main phenomena highlighting the issue of men’s mental health is the increasing rate of suicide deaths among men. Studies conducted across various countries reveal that men account for the majority of suicide deaths. In Ethiopia, for example, suicide rates range from 7.2 to 8.4 per 100,000 deaths. A 2022 study found that 73.7% of individuals exhibiting suicidal behavior were men, with an average age of 20. This trend is even more pronounced in developed countries. In the United States, for instance, men comprise 80% of suicide deaths. This begs the question; given that poor mental health affects everyone, why are male suicide deaths exceptionally high?

Although male suicide deaths are high, women actually attempt suicide more frequently. However, women are more likely to survive their attempts, as men often choose more lethal means, such as firearms. This could explain why male suicide deaths are higher. However, the issue goes deeper than that. The primary reason for the high rate of male suicide deaths lies in societal views towards men's mental health. 

“Man Up!”

Gender roles are entrenched in every society, even the most progressive ones. In essence, gender roles dictate certain behaviors and actions as appropriate for each gender, with adherence to these roles determining an individual’s virtue in society's eyes. As a result, individuals may feel compelled to conform to their assigned gender roles. In patriarchal societies (aka most of the world), men are often raised to hold power, become breadwinners, and assume leadership roles, while women are expected to remain on the sidelines as caregivers. The impact of these roles on women is relatively transparent, whereas their effect on men is less obvious. And that’s the main source of society’s distorted view on men’s mental health. 

In our society, men are often expected to show strength and avoid vulnerability. These expectations pay no regard to how men feel or how they should address them. This is observable even in so-called “self improvement” content that is tailored towards men. Most self-help content towards men encourages the repression of emotions. Self-help buzzwords like “Stoicism” are often misinterpreted as advocating for the suppression of emotional expression. The archetype of the ideal man is one who is devoid of emotions. Consequently, many men strive to achieve this ideal, neglecting their own feelings until it is too late.

Men repress their emotions in various ways. Some resort to alcohol or drugs, as men are more likely to engage in substance abuse. Others may immerse themselves in their work or develop obsessive habits, such as excessive exercise. Due to gender roles, men often feel that expressing their emotions openly is not an option. As a result, men are less likely to talk about their feelings and seek help. 

It’s Not Just About Opening More Clinics

When it comes to mental health talk in Ethiopia, the primary issue raised is the lack of access to mental health care. While this concern is merited, the problem needs more than just access to professional help. A shift in societal perspective is necessary to create spaces where men can express themselves openly. And that responsibility lies on men too. Men must encourage vulnerability among their peers and friend groups. They must detach themselves from any societal expectation that encourages emotional repression. The distorted idea of masculine strength must change. Strength doesn’t lie in hiding your emotions, rather it lies in having the courage to express ourselves when we’re not at our best. So how can we start this change? Well, today try to speak to any man you know and ask them a simple question; “How are you feeling?”