While mental health awareness is gradually improving, men’s mental well-being remains a largely ignored issue in India. Experts reveal that nearly 40% of Indian men avoid discussing their mental health due to deeply ingrained societal stigmas and misconceptions. The reluctance to seek help stems from traditional notions of masculinity, which discourage vulnerability and emotional openness.
Dr. Samir Kumar Praharaj, Professor and Head of the Department of Psychiatry at Kasturba Medical College, highlights how men are often conditioned to mask their emotions. “There’s a cultural belief that men should always appear strong and self-sufficient. As a result, many find it shameful to express their emotions or ask for help,” he explains.
This stigma contributes to the rising concern over men’s mental health, especially as India observes International Men’s Health Week from June 10 to June 16. Despite growing conversations about anxiety, depression, and stress, men’s mental health often remains in the shadows, leading many to suffer in silence.
Misconceptions and Masked Emotions
Dr. Shyam Bhat, Psychiatrist and Chairperson of LiveLoveLaugh, stresses that societal pressure to “man up” is a significant barrier to open communication about mental health. “The expectation that men should handle their emotions alone prevents them from seeking support, which worsens their struggles,” says Dr. Bhat.
He further explains that men tend to manifest their mental health challenges through anger and aggression rather than sadness. This contrasts with women, who may express vulnerability more readily. Unfortunately, this emotional suppression can lead to isolation, substance abuse, and an increased risk of suicide—male suicide rates are 2.5 times higher than those of women in India.
Rethinking Masculinity for Mental Health
To combat these alarming trends, both Dr. Praharaj and Dr. Bhat advocate for raising awareness and dismantling the myths surrounding male mental health. They call for targeted campaigns that encourage men to acknowledge their emotions and seek help without feeling ashamed.
“Men need to understand that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but an essential step toward mental well-being,” emphasizes Dr. Praharaj. He also suggests incorporating healthy habits such as regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and creative outlets into daily routines to boost mental health.
As we continue to confront the stigma around mental health, the focus must shift to redefining masculinity in a way that embraces emotional openness and vulnerability. By doing so, we can ensure that more men feel empowered to prioritize their mental health and seek the support they need.
Source: NDTV