Men’s Mental Health Awareness
Written by: Pansiluni Weerawansa
“People may often underreport men’s mental health, with men not reaching out for the support they need.”
Mental health is one of the most critical yet underappreciated aspects of human well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and interact with the world around us. However, when it comes to men’s mental health, society often remains uncomfortably silent. This silence is not accidental but it is deeply rooted in stiff cultural expectations that equate masculinity with emotional fortitude, self-reliance, and invulnerability. In countries like Sri Lanka, these norms are further reinforced by traditional values, leaving many men to grapple with their struggles in isolation which eventually escalates into severe problems.
The consequences of this stigma are severe. Men are far less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues, often viewing them as an admission of weakness. According to statistics by ADDA, “nearly 1 in 10 men experience depression or anxiety but less than half will receive treatment, and more than 4 times as many men as women die by suicide every year”. This reluctance leads to a range of unaddressed problems, from chronic stress and depression to alarming rates of substance abuse and suicide. In Sri Lanka where the cultural norms place immense pressure on men to be providers and protectors, the emotional toll can be overwhelming, yet it remains an issue that is rarely discussed openly.
“Men are less likely to receive treatment”
Men’s mental health is deeply affected by the burden of traditional masculinity, a concept that dictates that men must remain stoic, strong, and self-reliant at all times. This societal pressure often discourages them from expressing vulnerability or seeking help. The result? A silent epidemic of untreated mental health issues, manifesting in troubling statistics like higher suicide rates among men compared to women.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that men are significantly less likely to seek help for mental health problems. In Sri Lanka, this trend is amplified by cultural norms that discourage men from showing weakness, relegating their struggles to a realm of silence. This unspoken burden underscores the urgent need for a shift in attitudes and awareness. Sri Lankan culture places immense pressure on men to fulfill roles as providers, protectors, and decision-makers. This idealised version of masculinity can be particularly taxing, especially in rural areas where economic and social challenges are exacerbated by limited resources.
In addition, urbanisation and modernisation bring their own set of challenges. For young professionals in cities like Colombo, the burdens of demanding jobs and fast-paced lifestyles create a fertile ground for anxiety and breakdown. The corporate culture, which often glorifies overwork, relentless productivity, and unyielding flexibility, discourages men from acknowledging their struggles or seeking professional help. This toxic environment propagates the notion that taking time off for mental health equates to a lack of commitment or strength, leaving many to silently endure stress, anxiety, and burnout.
To effectively address men’s mental health in Sri Lanka, a multi-pronged approach is essential.
Mental health education is a foundational step. Introducing mental health topics in school curricula can help boys cultivate emotional intelligence and coping mechanisms from an early age. Public awareness campaigns, personalised to address cultural nuances, can also play a crucial role. These efforts should emphasise that seeking help is not a weakness but a proactive step towards self-care.
Breaking the silence surrounding men’s mental health requires creating safe spaces for dialogue. Social media platforms can amplify these conversations, with influencers and public figures sharing their experiences. When prominent figures open up about their mental health struggles, it humanises the issue and inspires others to follow suit.
Accessibility remains a critical barrier, particularly in rural Sri Lanka. Expanding health services and integrating mental health care into primary health services can bridge the gap. Simultaneously, government and private sector collaborations can work towards training more mental health professionals to meet the growing demand.
Youth groups and sports clubs offer excellent platforms to introduce mental health discussions. By blending recreational activities with mental health awareness programs, these spaces can nurture solidarity, trust, and open communication among young men.
Furthermore, media has the potential to reshape societal attitudes towards mental health. Positive portrayals in movies, television, and news can destigmatize mental health issues and redefine strength as the courage to seek help. Campaigns highlighting men who have triumphed over mental health challenges can shift perceptions, creating a culture of support and empathy.
Addressing men’s mental health is not merely about awareness but also action. It requires a cultural shift that redefines masculinity, normalising vulnerability and promoting emotional resilience. Sri Lanka, with its rich tradition of community and connection, is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation by blending traditional wisdom with contemporary approaches.
It’s time to break the silence, shatter the stigma, and champion a society where mental health is a universal priority. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness! It’s an act of strength and self-respect. Together, we can create a future where every man feels supported, valued, and empowered to live his healthiest life.
References
https://adaa.org/find-help/by-demographics/mens-mental-health
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health