How can you help?Be there to listen without judgment.
In a world where men are classified as weak, it takes a lot of courage for someone to open up about their mental health and struggles. Listening can be one of the most powerful ways to help someone,
as it allows the individual to process and share their challenges in a safe space. It is important to note that judgment or blame can decrease their willingness to share information about what they are going through or seek support. Be a non-judgmental listener.
The best support you can give is empathy and compassion.Understanding what men go through is important for supporting them.Reassure the person that they are not alone in what they are experiencing.Remind your loved one that asking for help is a sign of strength and courage, not weakness, as society portrays it. Help the person get appropriate support.Before helping the person get support, ensure the individual is safe and aware of the options available before you direct them to the appropriate help station. These could be a therapist, family, local support groups, etc. It is important that they are aware of the direction you are going in seeking help for them. The need for self-care cannot be overemphasized.
Take care of yourself! It is not possible to support anyone with mental health challenges if you are emotionally drained. When you take care of yourself, you are in a better position to look out for others.A loved one’s mental health condition can affect you in many ways. Finding a peer support group or talking to a mental health provider can improve your well-being and put you in the best position to help your loved one. Self-care is important!
As a society, we can work together to address stigmas about mental health and encourage more people to discuss their challenges and share their stories. The more we encourage men to speak up, the healthier our society will be. Addressing mental health stigma in males and supporting the men in your life can help them get the treatment they need to have a better quality of life, and by being an advocate, you help reduce stigma around mental health by being a voice for them when they need you the most.