In the United States, 21% of adults experienced some type of mental illness in 2020. Over a lifetime, the percentage of people who need men’s mental health programs is even higher. By noticing the signs of mental health conditions and learning about risk factors, you can get help early on.
Mental Health Risk Factors for Men
There are a number of risk factors associated with men and mental health disorders. For example, men are more likely to seek out a men’s mental health clinic if they have recently been through a divorce or some kind of trauma. Being in combat or suffering from a violent assault can cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Men are more likely to commit suicide if they are older and white. Statistically, white men over the age of 85 are the most likely to commit suicide. If men undergo employment issues, they are also likely to experience depression and heightened suicide risk.
An estimated 56% of people who seek substance abuse treatment have co-occurring mental illnesses, so misusing alcohol and drugs is a major risk factor. Other than a family history of mental illness, men may need help with mental health because of money problems or legal issues. Life challenges, like the death of a loved one, can also end up triggering a mental health disorder.
Most Common Mental Health Conditions in Men
While men’s mental health statistics show how widespread these problems are, many men don’t get the treatment they need right away. The following men’s mental health disorders are common issues. Once someone is professionally diagnosed, they can seek out the care they need.
Schizophrenia and Psychosis
Schizophrenia is two to three times more likely to develop in men than women. When someone has this condition, they don’t perceive reality as the way it is. Instead, they typically suffer from disordered thinking, hallucinations, and delusions.
Depression
While two times more women are likely to suffer from depression than men, men are less likely to get treatment for their depression. Known as one of the most common problems for women and men’s mental health in the world, depression is characterized by having a low mood.
Anxiety
Around 40 million American adults suffer from an anxiety disorder. These disorders involve uncontrollable feelings of worry or fear. Like many mental illnesses, men are less likely than women to get the treatment they need.
Bipolar Disorder
About 2.9% of adult males suffered from bipolar disorder in the last year. Normally, men develop this condition between the ages of 16 and 25. Men who have this condition suffer from extreme highs and lows in their activity levels and moods.
Eating Disorders
An estimated 25% of people with anorexia nervosa are male, but men have the highest chances of dying. Because people don’t think about eating disorders as a male condition, men are more likely to die and get a late diagnosis. Men can also suffer from bulimia and binge-eating disorder.
How Men Can Get Treatment for Their Mental Health
When it comes to mental health for men, there are many different treatments available. While medications can help with a number of conditions, talk therapy and group support meetings are also useful treatment options. A professional therapist can review your medical history and help you figure out the best mental health treatment for you.
If you are searching for men’s mental health clinics, you aren’t alone. While mental health disorders affect many men, clients often don’t always seek help when they need it. If you or your loved one needs help, reach out to Las Encinas Recovery Center today to learn more about our programs.
