Trigger warning: mentions of suicide.
Men’s health is often a subject that is unexplored and not talked about often. This is often due to the standards of masculinity that are set by our society; men are supposed to be strong protectors who do not allow themselves to be vulnerable. These ideologies are incredibly damaging to men’s health, and often leads men down a destructive path.
Why don’t men talk enough about their health? It is a well-known trope that men are often much more reluctant to see a doctor than women. If they are in pain or suffering discomfort, men are more likely to brush it aside and move on. This is a dangerous behavior that can lead to untreated problems and further health consequences down the line.
Mental Health
Men’s mental health is enormously underexplored and can lead to horrific consequences. In the USA alone, over 47,000 people died from suicide in 2017. Statistics show that men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women. Although women attempt suicide more often, men are much more likely to succeed. These are terrifying statistics that should be taken extremely seriously.
So why is men’s mental health so poor? Often, there is a stigma attached to men seeking therapy, counseling or medical help when they feel depressed or suicidal. Supposedly, showing mental vulnerability is a sign of weakness, and in our society, men are conditioned not to show their weakness to others. This is a very damaging ideology that needs to be reconsidered. Bottling up emotions can lead to drastic consequences.
Physical Health
Men’s physical health is also a subject that needs more examination. Men are statistically much less likely to seek help from a doctor than women. This leaves their health up to pure chance: their discomfort could be a passing ailment and nothing more; it could also be life-threatening and worsen with time. There are many reasons why men may not visit the doctor as much as women – but the main reason is the same as before: vulnerability.
If you are a man who wishes to seek answers on your health, visit a licensed medical practitioner, and have a checkup. Particularly for more delicate subjects, such as poor sexual performance, which is increasingly treatable with solutions such as HGH treatments, it is important that a doctor is consulted – however awkward the encounter. A short term awkward conversation is worth it for the long term advantages of proper healthcare.
Conclusion
Whatever your age or situation, as a man, you deserve healthcare and wellness. Admitting vulnerability in this society is a challenge, but if you can bring yourself to do it, you’ll be met with amazing support from your family, friends, and medical professionals. Seeking help is never easy, but your happiness is worth it.
If you are concerned about your mental health or feel you are in crisis, call 911 for an ambulance, or call a suicide helpline. Your life is worth saving – always.
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