Let’s look at some of the issues that can affect men’s mental health. I will add these are not men specific, but I know there are a lot of men out there who shy away from asking from help for one reason or another. Here are a few of the more common mental health issues that I have helped people deal with:
- Anxiety – generalised/social
- Depression
- Low self-esteem
- Anger
- Eating Disorders
- Sexuality
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Anxiety
Anxiety can be generalised anxiety, where you appear to worry about anything and everything. Functioning on a daily basis can be a challenge because your concentration is interrupted by worrying thoughts. These worries can take over your whole day. These worries can also affect your physical health. You might be finding it hard to sleep or even feel like you have no energy to do anything.
Social anxiety is the fear of what might happen in a social situation. Whilst you are out socialising, you will be worrying about what other people are thinking about you rather than enjoying the moment. After being in a social situation, you will worry just in case you said anything that may have offended someone. Therefore social situations become a very challenging place rather than a nice relaxing environment.
Depression
It can lead you to feel sad all the time, not enjoying life, or getting pleasure out of anything that you are doing. You can struggle to get out of bed and cope with normal everyday life. When depression takes hold, it is difficult to see a way out. Every day seems like a battle. You wake up with a feeling of dread and wonder how you are going to get through the day. You feel like you have lead weights tied to your legs and arms. Even the simplest of tasks seem insurmountable.
Low self-esteem
Do you look at others and feel that you are not as good as them. Do you view everyone else as better than you? Are you guilty of seeing other people’s achievements as better than yours? Do you compare yourself to others and feel like a failure? Do you ever think, “I wish I was more like Fred, he is so confident and so popular?”
Anger
How do you react in situations? Do you find yourself being excessively angry? Is anger an emotion that you struggle to keep a lid on? Does something make you angry, but when you think about it afterwards, you are confused about why you have acted in such a way?
Eating Disorders
Do you use food to mask emotions? Are you eating too much or too little? Do you spend a lot of your time thinking or worrying about food? Are you avoiding social situations where they may be food, as it makes you feel uncomfortable? Are you over-exercising or being strict with your diet?
Sexuality
Are you worried about coming out or telling people about your sexuality? Do you worry that people will not like you if you tell them about your sexuality? How will your family react to what you have to tell them?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Has having to repeat processes or actions taken over your life? Do you check the door numerous times before leaving home? Do you worry if I don’t do some action, something bad will happen?
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Have you had a traumatic experience in your life that has left you with memories that are triggered by noises or actions? Do you get flashbacks to this traumatic occasion?
These are all issues that can affect men’s mental health. If you can see yourself in any of the scenarios above, now is the time to take action. I can support you to explore these issues and look for solutions to learn to deal with them differently.
If you need support with any of the issues mentioned, please click on the button below and book an appointment with me
