Men's Mental Health Awareness

Men's Mental Health Matter Too

June is designated as Men's Mental Health Month, and this week from June 10th to the 16th is celebrated as International Men's Health Week.

These annual observances are meant to not only raise awareness of men's mental health issues but also encourage men to seek help.

Considering that there is often a stigma placed around men's mental health, it's time we break down the barriers and stereotypes surrounding men and their emotions.

It's crucial for all of us to acknowledge that men cry, they have feelings, they experience pain, and yes, they can suffer from mental illnesses, too.

No one should ever feel ashamed or judged for reaching out for help or expressing what they're going through. It's NOT a sign of weakness; it's a sign of strength and courage to confront what's going on inside.

Therefore, even though society has painted a narrow picture of what it means to 'be a man,' it's time for us to change these ideals. Let's redefine masculinity together by supporting each other, checking in on the males in our lives, and creating a culture where seeking help is encouraged and not stigmatized.

Remember, your mental health matters, no matter your gender. Let's break the silence and start the conversation so that all men will be encouraged to prioritize their mental and physical health.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) awareness month.

PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.

It can manifest through intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to the experience, which persist long after the event ends.

Individuals with PTSD may relive the event through flashbacks or nightmares, feel sadness, anxiety, or anger, and may feel detached or estranged from others.

Still, PTSD symptoms can manifest differently from person to person, and while some people develop symptoms directly following the traumatic event, others may take months or years for symptoms to show.

PTSD can also affect anyone of any age or gender who has been exposed to trauma, including survivors of natural disasters, accidents, terrorist acts, war/combat, or sexual assault.

While PTSD mostly affects the individual directly involved in such events; first responders, medical personnel, and even loved ones of those who have experienced trauma can develop PTSD.

In honor of this month, let's support PTSD awareness by promoting open conversations about this disorder and encouraging those affected to seek the help they need.

In doing so, we can help those suffering find a path to recovery and reclaim their lives, knowing that every step towards understanding PTSD is a step toward healing and hope.

How to Support Men with Their Mental Health

June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness month, and we want to highlight how you can support men with their mental health. Here are meaningful ways we can show support:

1. Listen without judgment: Sometimes, lending an ear is all it takes. Let's create spaces where men feel safe to share their thoughts and emotions.

2. Encourage seeking help: Remind them it's okay to ask for support, whether from friends, family, or a professional. Seeking help is a sign of strength.

3. Promote self-care: Encourage healthy habits like exercise, relaxation techniques, and pursuing hobbies they enjoy. Taking care of oneself is crucial for mental well-being.

4. Be a positive influence: Offer encouragement and affirmations. Your words can make a huge difference in their day.

5. Raise awareness: Break the stigma by sharing resources and articles about men's mental health. Education fosters understanding and empathy.

Together, let's foster a supportive environment where men can thrive mentally and emotionally. Let's rally for men's mental health!

Sources:

Men's Mental Health Month and International Men's Health Week:

• "June is Men's Health Month." Men's Health Month, Men's Health Network, www.menshealthmonth.org/.

• "International Men's Health Week." Men's Health Network, www.menshealthnetwork.org/imhc.
  

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month:

• "June is PTSD Awareness Month." U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/awareness/index.asp.