Despite the importance of men’s health, many men still have a tendency to remain silent about their physical and mental wellbeing. This can lead to undiagnosed health issues and missed opportunities to seek support and treatment.
Mental health for men can be overlooked for several reasons including but not limited to;
SOCIAL NORMS & EXPECTATIONS, UPBRINGING, or ROLE MODELS WE ARE EXPOSED TO
Additionally, society can dismiss male mental health issues with common phrases such as:
“TOUGHEN UP”, “GET ON WITH IT”, “YOU’LL BE RIGHT” and “BE A MAN”
This lingering culture of dismissal is a risky practice leading men to minimise indicators of poor mental health.
FATHERHOOD
Fatherhood can be a challenging and overwhelming time and seeking the right support can be difficult. Notwithstanding the common signs of mental health issues (stress, loneliness, anxiety, & depression), the transition into parenthood can expose men to increased stress and fear heightening their risk of further mental health concerns.
Factors contributing to poor mental health for fathers can include:
- depression in the postnatal period
- having a child with complex needs
- feeling ineffective as a parent
- inability to secure full time paid employment
- difficulty in asking for help/alienation
- pressure of being the sole breadwinner
When unsupported, mental health issues for men can be catastrophic with the rate of male suicide currently being biggest killer of men under 45 years of age.
SuPPORTING FATHER'S AND THEIR MENTAL HEALTH
It is important that we show our support and be there for all parents in particular fathers new to parenthood during this highly stimulating time and overwhelming time. But how can we do that …
Encourage Open Communication: One of the most crucial steps in supporting fatherhood mental health is creating a safe space for dads to express their thoughts and emotions. Encourage open communication by actively listening to them without judgment. Let them know that it’s okay to talk about their worries, stresses, or anxieties.
Validate Their Emotions: Society often expects fathers to be strong and unemotional, which can be detrimental to their mental health. As partners, family members, or friends, we can help challenge this notion by validating their emotions. Let dads know that it’s normal to experience a wide range of feelings, including stress, frustration, or even moments of self-doubt. Assure them that seeking support or professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Networks And Resources: Building a strong support network is essential for mental well-being. Encourage dads to connect with others, either through parenting groups, online forums, or local community organizations. These platforms provide opportunities for sharing experiences, seeking advice, and offering support. Being able to relate to others who are going through similar challenges can be immensely comforting. Additionally, providing awareness of resources and guidance such as local support groups, counselling and psychology services, helplines or online resources will be beneficial for further learning and understanding.
Supporting fatherhood mental health is a collective effort. By fostering open communication, building supportive networks, validating emotions, encouraging self-care, and providing resources, we can create an environment where fathers feel seen, heard, and supported. Let’s ensure that every dad knows they’re not alone in their journey, and their mental health is just as important as anyone else’s. Together, we can help fathers thrive in their roles and create healthier, happier families.
