Men who struggle with mental health conditions often feel pressured by society’s expectations. People generally say that men should be strong and fearless, but men are susceptible to ailments like anxiety and depression just like women.
It can be very difficult for a man with a mental health condition to approach his family and friends to say “I’m struggling with this” or, “I feel overwhelmed and unhappy.” Many people hold on to the misguided idea that men should not express vulnerability or weakness, as though men were somehow exempt from the same feelings as women. There also seems to be a lack of awareness of the biological factors that contribute to mental illness which have little to do with gender.
Stephen Fry, a celebrity in the UK, has publicly discussed his battle with bipolar disorder. Recently he admitted that he was depressed enough to attempt suicide just this past year.
Rather than offering the support and sympathy one would expect, some people responded with sarcasm and a callous lack of concern. Instead of acknowledging that Mr. Fry and other men who struggle with depression are going through something serious and potentially deadly, some critics of the celebrity made light of the situation.
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for people to express outdated opinions about men and mental health. The fear of how others will respond can discourage some men from seeking the help they need, a choice that can have tragic consequences.
If you would like to read an article discussing Mr. Fry’s battle with depression and how his honesty is bringing attention to mental illness in men, follow this link:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/jun/11/stephen-fry-male-depression-boys-cry
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