The Benefits of Therapy for Men
Dr. William Beecroft, M.D.
| 3 min read
Dr. William Beecroft, MD, DLFAPA, is the Medical Dir...
Key Takeaways
- Nearly 10% of men experience depression or anxiety, but less than half seek treatment, according to research.
- Traditional masculine stereotypes emphasizing stoicism and strength can prevent men from acknowledging and expressing their feelings, leading to underdiagnosis of depression.
- Asking for help may be difficult for men, but avoiding treatment can make a potentially undiagnosed condition worse.
Nearly one in 10 men experience some form of depression or anxiety, but less than half seek treatment, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA). Research shows men generally resist health care – not only are they less likely than women to seek primary health care, men are also less likely than women to seek mental health treatment.
Therapy helps individuals process and express emotions, manage stress and anxiety, cope with trauma and improve relationships, among other benefits. Personal growth in these areas shouldn’t be reserved for women, yet research shows men are reluctant to target these growth areas, largely because of societal stigmas.
How societal pressures contribute to disparities in mental health treatment
A recent study found the cultural stigma of mental illness affects men more than women. Another study suggests men may feel ashamed or embarrassed by their thoughts and feelings, influenced by longstanding cultural attitudes about gender and mental health.
Generations of men growing up in the United States have heard messages like “be a man” and “toughen up.” These stereotypes can push men to conform to a traditional view of what being a man looks like in American society: strong, stoic, unemotional, masculine, tough and invulnerable.
A 2021 study stated stereotypes like these can make it difficult for men to acknowledge and express feelings, and men who most strongly subscribe to these traditional masculinities are particularly liable to suffer from depression.
Why is depression underdiagnosed in men?
More than six million men in the U.S. suffer from depression per year, yet male depression often goes underdiagnosed or undiagnosed, according to the ADAA. Several behavioral factors can contribute to a lack of depression diagnoses in men, including:
- Mistaking physical symptoms of depression – such as headaches, digestive problems, fatigue and irritability – with a physical issue rather than a mental health issue
- Downplaying or minimizing symptoms and ignoring them or covering them up to hide feelings that may be related to depression
- Avoiding discussing feelings and emotions related to chronic sadness
Recognizing warning signs of depression in men
Some men may not show noticeable signs of a mental health issue, while others may display several concerning behaviors. The National Institute of Mental Health lists the following signs of mental health disorders in men:
- Aches, headaches, digestive problems without a clear cause
- Anger, irritability, or aggressiveness
- Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless, or on edge
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Engaging in high-risk activities
- Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions
- Increased worry or feeling stressed
- Misuse of alcohol and/or drugs
- Noticeable changes in mood, energy level, or appetite
- Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior
- Sadness or hopelessness
- Suicidal thoughts
Statistics show that reluctance to get help can have tragic consequences. Men died by suicide 3.85 times more often than women in 2022.
Asking for help may be difficult for men, but avoiding treatment can make a potentially undiagnosed condition worse. Individuals who recognize warning signs in themselves or a loved one should talk with their health care provider. Additionally, there are lifestyle changes men can make at home to improve mental health, including:
- Aiming for seven to eight hours of sleep per night
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting in moderate-to-intense exercise five days a week
- Limiting or eliminating alcohol intake and cutting back on caffeine
If you have an immediate crisis, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. Crisis care is also an option. Click here for a list of Michigan crisis care services and centers available near you.
William Beecroft is a medical director of behavioral health at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. For more health tips and information visit MIBlueDaily.com.
Photo credit: Getty Images
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