Men and mental health: a taboo that needs to be broken
Although mental health is getting more and more attention, one aspect is often neglected: men's mental health. The traditional idea that men have to be ‘tough’ and must not show weakness often leads to men ignoring mental health problems and rarely seeking help (Krumm et al., 2017). The effects can manifest in men in the form of depression, substance misuse and an alarmingly high suicide rate. (Canetto & Sakinofsky, 1998).
Why men often do not seek help
Social expectations and cultural norms have an enormous influence on men's behaviour, especially when it comes to admitting weaknesses. Men experience strong societal pressure to conform to characteristics that are considered masculine. These perceptions prevent many men from sharing their feelings or seeking professional help. In fact, research shows that men are less likely to seek psychological support compared to women, which can lead to untreated, often severe problems (Addis & Mahalik, 2003; Krumm et al., 2017).
Distraction instead of coping
In order to deal with psychological stress, many men resort to various strategies that are usually only partially effective (Mahalik et al., 2003; Levant & Wimer, 2014). Some men try to focus on solutions instead of dealing with their feelings and tackling the problem at its source. Others use distractions such as sports or work to escape the emotional pain. Unfortunately, this can also have negative sides: Repression and substance abuse are also common mechanisms that often exacerbate the condition (Levant & Wimer, 2014).
November becomes Movember
In addition to Men's Health Awareness Month in June, November is all about male mental health. Movember is a global initiative that draws attention to men's health issues such as mental health and prostate cancer. The moustache is the symbol for this movement, which is intended to become a topic of conversation and stimulate reflection. The message behind it is clear: men are not alone with their problems and health should not be a taboo subject.
How neurofeedback can help
Neurofeedback is a non-invasive therapeutic approach in which brainwave activity is measured to provide real-time feedback to the patient. Neurofeedback is mainly used in therapy to improve the ability to self-regulate. This approach means that neurofeedback can be used as a therapy component for many different mental illnesses. For example, it can also be used for depression or addiction. Experience shows that neurofeedback can also be an attractive therapy method for people who have problems opening up and talking about their feelings. Neurofeedback brings a certain lightness to the therapy, in which patients do not have to actively perform, but can relax and follow an animation or a video game.
Neurofeedback should always be seen in the context of an overall treatment strategy. It represents a therapy component alongside, for example, behavioural therapy or medication. It is important that symptoms and neurofeedback treatment are discussed with a doctor or therapist.
Sources:
Addis, M. E., & Mahalik, J. R. (2003). Men, masculinity, and the contexts of help-seeking. American psychologist
Canetto, S. S., & Sakinofsky, I. (1998). The gender paradox in suicide. Suicide and Life‐Threatening Behavior
Krumm, S., Checchia, C., Koesters, M., Kilian, R., & Becker, T. (2017). Men's views on depression: a systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative research. Psychopathology
Levant, R. F., & Wimer, D. J. (2014). Masculinity constructs as protective buffers and risk factors for men’s health. American journal of men's health