Challenges Men Face in Seeking Support for Mental Wellbeing

Date: Wednesday 13 Nov 2024

“While we do not see technology as a replacement for human interaction and clinical care, we believe it should enhance existing services and provide new opportunities for men to access the support they need.”

Men often encounter significant barriers when seeking support for their mental wellbeing. Societal expectations pressure men to appear strong and self-reliant. This pressure can lead to feelings of isolation and reluctance to reach out for help.

Many men fear being judged or perceived as weak if they express vulnerability. The stigma surrounding mental wellbeing remains a substantial barrier for men. Many worry about the implications of seeking help, fearing it may affect their careers or personal relationships. This stigma can prevent them from utilizing available resources.

The lack of tailored resources for men further complicates these challenges. Many men feel uncomfortable in traditional support settings. They often prefer informal environments where they can connect with others who share similar experiences. This preference underscores the need for more accessible and relatable support options. At Brothers in Arms, we believe a significant change is necessary to make it easier for men to access the support they need.

Traditional masculine norms often discourage men from showing vulnerability. Many feel pressured to be strong and self-reliant, leading to shame about seeking help. Internalizing these societal expectations is common, with many men believing they should "deal with it" alone. This internal struggle can prevent them from recognizing the signs of mental wellbeing issues.

Fear of vulnerability also holds men back. Many worry about appearing weak, especially when interacting with medical professionals. Concerns about wasting their GP's time further discourage them from reaching out. Additionally, the preference for self-reliance can lead to harmful coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse.

Negative perceptions of therapy complicate matters. Some men view therapy as a female-oriented solution or something only for those with severe issues. This belief can discourage them from seeking help. Furthermore, traditional mental wellbeing services may not cater to men's specific needs, highlighting a demand for more tailored approaches.

Access and affordability present additional barriers. Practical issues, such as cost and transportation, can hinder men's ability to seek support. Many men also drop out of therapy due to a lack of connection with their therapist. This underscores the need for professionals who understand men's unique challenges.

A multifaceted approach is necessary to tackle these issues. Raising awareness of men's mental wellbeing and challenging the stigma surrounding help-seeking is crucial. Developing male-specific services tailored to their needs is essential. Training professionals to work effectively with men can improve outcomes. Making mental wellbeing services more accessible and affordable is also vital.

Leveraging technology can provide anonymous support options, making it easier for men to seek help. Promoting positive models of masculinity can encourage emotional expression and the pursuit of support when needed. While we do not see technology as a replacement for human interaction and clinical care, we believe it should enhance existing services and provide new opportunities for men to access the support they need.

By addressing these challenges, the UK can foster a more supportive environment for men, ultimately enhancing their overall wellbeing and encouraging them to seek the help they deserve.

Read more here: The Man Box: A Study on Being a Young Man in the US, UK, and Mexico 

Read more here: AI And The Secret Life Of Men