The State of Men and Mental Health

The Charles E. Kubly Foundation asked me to inform its advocates, especially those who are male, about the state of men’s mental health. Nearly one out of ten of us men experience depression or anxiety, but less than half ever receive treatment. The stressful and polarized world today threatens our mental health. There is no health without mental health. Up to half of us will struggle with our mental health in our lifetime. Men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women.

Stigma continues to be a major hurdle. Many men worry that being seen getting mental health care will be viewed as a weakness. That is bull****! I have provided psychiatric care for some of the toughest combat hero veterans in the world. Depression and anxiety disorders can happen to any of us and toughness has nothing to do with it. It is truly a strength to recognize our mental health struggles and to get help when we need it.

What are some things that can really help with your mental health? Regular exercise has antidepressant and antianxiety effects. Even getting out and walking for thirty minutes a day makes a difference. Getting enough sleep helps–look up “sleep hygiene” on the internet and learn some good rules to optimize your sleep.

Watch your alcohol intake. I always find I start drinking more when I am stressed. Alcohol has depressant effects, and though it might help you fall asleep, it impairs deep sleep and negatively impacts sleep. Having a close friend you can talk about things with makes a difference.

If you are feeling more anxious or depressed day after day, first talk to your primary care provider. They can get you started with some treatment or will refer you to a mental health professional. Anxiety and depressive disorders are treatable. Effective treatments include talk therapy, commonly referred to as psychotherapy, and medications. These treatments are sometimes most effective when used in combination. They do not work overnight and usually take several weeks, so
be patient.

Jon A. Lehrmann MD
Charles E. Kubly Chair in Psychiatry & Behavioral Medicine, Professor,
MCW Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Medicine