In this article we will discuss the importance of men’s mental health in and out of work. Why it is so important for men to open up and dismiss the stereotype that society has put on men. We will also talk about how workplaces can promote positive mental health and the benefits of doing so.
Men’s mental health in work is a massive issue worldwide just as much as their mental health in general. There are many job sectors that don’t offer the right support or any support at all and they are just expected to get on with it.
Men are often taught/encouraged to conceal their feelings from a young age. Men struggle to talk about their feelings as they are often told to ‘man up’ or that ‘boys don’t cry’. There’s a stereotype on men that they have to be strong and resilient. These high and unrealistic expectations of how men should express their emotions are the root cause of why many men don’t speak up and ask for help when they are struggling with their mental health.
How does work affect men’s mental health?
Not only does mental health in the workplace affect the individual, but it can also massively affect the company from a major cause of long-term absence from work. While a job may not cause issues with your mental health, it can enhance them. Ways that work can affect your mental health include;
Overworking – This can cause sleep deprivation and can lead to depression and anxiety. It can also affect your personal life as you may be too tired to do the things you normally like to do outside of work.
Stigma – Men’s mental health is still a problem and many men aren’t don’t like to speak about their feelings with anyone, never mind their co-workers.
Poor pay – When employees are underpaid and overworked, it is more likely to impact their mental health.
Excessive workload – This prevents employees from working efficiently and being as productive as they normally would be and causes exhaustion and lack of motivation.
Poor management – If you have poor management, it can be very hard for employees to speak up about concerns or feelings they may be experiencing in work.
If you are experiencing stress and mental health at work, the best thing to do is speak to your manager. In case you are not ready or feel uncomfortable, you can also contact your local GP or mental health professional who can guide you in the right direction and get you the help you need.
What are the signs of men struggling with mental health at work?
Increased absences
Outbursts or mood swings
Lack of motivation
Poor performance
Tiredness
Keeping to themselves and avoiding interactions
Quieter than normal
Changes in physical appearance and demeaner
It can be hard to spot signs that a man is struggling with his mental health. Many men struggle with admitting that they need help and are embarrassed of their feelings. Although some men may talk to their partner or family about their mental health, many also don’t and keep these feelings to themselves.
Why is it important for men to speak up about their mental health?
“In a survey by Men’s Mental Health forum, 34% of men said they constantly feel stressed or under pressure. 200,000 men a year report feeling stressed, anxious or depressed due to work.”
It is so important for men to speak up about their mental health as men are more likely harm themselves, such as suicide. Suicide is the biggest killer of men as three times as many men more than woman die by suicide. The stereotype that men should be ‘big and strong’ is so harmful towards men that are struggling with their mental health as it stops them from opening up as they don’t want to be portrayed as weak. However, mental health is not a weakness. Although men may try to disguise their feelings, they may become more enraged and irritated than usual. Take time to ask how they are and if there’s anything you can do to help. Globally there are 792 million people who are impacted by mental health issues.
How can workplaces promote positive mental health for men?
Create a safe space – Have conversations with your staff to ensure them that if they are struggling there is help available. Support employees that are struggling in any way you can.
Set realistic job demands – There are many men that complain of heavy workloads which can result in stress.
Encourage employees to take breaks when needed – If an employee is getting too stressed with work they may need a break. Encourage them to take regular breaks.
Provide support – Whether this be support for mental health or support for jobs. Make sure that whatever job they are doing they have the right facilities and support to do so.
Encourage communication – If there are any problems at work employees should feel able to speak to someone without fear of being intimidated or small.
Motivate a healthy work/life balance – This is common for poor mental health at work. Encourage employees to take their entitled holidays and avoid working long/extra shifts.
What are the benefits of promoting positive mental health in work?
Healthy and happy environment.
A better understanding of your co-workers/staff.
Better work/life balance
Improved productivity
Better motivation
Improved morale
Less absences
Men’s mental health awareness
Asking for help is not something to be ashamed about and there are people that care and want to help. In addition, communication is a massive factor in that first step of receiving help and encouraging positive mental health. Not only help from friends and family, there are multiple charities that you can reach out to for help. Your local GP will be able to help you with your mental health whether that’s providing medication and/or therapy.
We need to get more men talking about mental health issues and eliminate the stigma and unrealistic expectations that society has placed on men. Despite this, we are all humans with real feelings. It shouldn’t be this hard for men to talk about their feelings and their struggles with mental health. With this intention, let’s encourage the men in our life to speak up about their mental health, let’s promote positive mental health for men both in work and out of work.
