A Silent Pandemic – Men’s Mental Health

Movember, the month formerly known as November, is when brave and selfless men around the world grow a moustache, and women step up to support them, all to raise awareness for men's health - specifically prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention.

Male depression is a serious medical condition, but many men try to ignore it or refuse treatment. Men often face the expectation to remain strong and silent in the face of extraordinarily difficult challenges, and surveys from around the world find that males everywhere are reluctant to talk about their mental health.

In South Africa, men are four times more likely to die by suicide compared to women. Globally, compared to women, men are less likely to seek help for mental health difficulties.

The same mental health issues can manifest differently in males and females. Males with depression may exhibit higher levels of anger, aggression, and irritability. Females with depression may display signs of low mood instead.

Symptoms of depression in males can be physiological, such as a racing heart, digestive issues, or headaches. Males may be “more likely to see their doctor about physical symptoms than emotional symptoms”.

Male depression often is not diagnosed for several reasons, including:

• Not recognizing depression.

• Downplaying symptoms.

• Not wanting to talk about depression symptoms.

• Not wanting to get mental health treatment.

GET HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT

Asking for help can be hard for men. But without treatment, depression isn't likely to go away, and it may get worse. It can cause problems in every part of your life.

What can I do if I’m worried about my mental health? If you want some tips on staying well, start making simple changes such as talking about your feelings, keeping active and eating well can help you feel better.

If you’re concerned that you’re developing a mental health problem, talk to your GP. It can be daunting, but getting help and support can make a big difference.

All medical aids in SA and most of all the major GAP cover companies are offering Mental Health Care Programmes as part of their benefit offerings.

Medical scheme members can receive specific outpatient and in-hospital care/treatment for particular mental health disorders such as anxiety, acute stress, delusions, psychosis, and affective disorders such as schizophrenia, and bipolar or depressive disorders. As chronic conditions, members are covered for schizophrenia and bipolar mood disorder. Other conditions, such as major depression, are usually only covered by medical schemes on more comprehensive options, with certain limitations.

The good news is that there are more than enough support programs and benefits available for Mental Health issues which will support men (and women) to ensure that they do not have to face this pandemic on their own.