Supporting men’s mental health

It’s a stigma that too many people don’t want to face: we live in a world where boys, bachelors, boyfriends and husbands are charged not to show their emotions, especially ones of sad or sorrowful notes. This approach has proven to be counterproductive in today’s society, with many subsequently shutting down, having nervous breakdowns or ending their lives in what they consider to be a dignified fashion. Instead of playing into the concept of ‘manning up’, therapist Marlon Simpson is encouraging men to speak up, by providing a private and safe space for them to not only air their issues, but address them once and for all.

“June is [men’s health month (and that also means mental health)] and it is a topic that isn’t widely spoken about. But it is something that is very important,” the psychologist told Lifestyle. Simpson explained that it has been an area of focus and of great significance in his line of work where men’s health is concerned.

“One of the major things we have come to understand is that men don’t like to seek help; they would rather save that as a last resort. But studies have shown that the quicker we seek help, the quicker we acknowledge that not all is well and we actually get the help, the better off we are in terms of our health.”

Simpson is no stranger to this subject matter, in more ways than one. He was faced with the unfortunate blow of unemployment during the global pandemic. He noticed that when he lost his job, it began affecting his mental health and that’s when he realised that there were several males who needed help but had nowhere to go. “So, I found it beneficial to start a company that cares for the whole mind of the person,” the director of Loving Minds Associates explained.

Since starting the business three years ago, he has dealt with a wide range of issues: anxiety, depression and a host of mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. He also treats children with developmental disorders like autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other learning disabilities, noting that his speciality is within the realms of stroke and dementia.

Focusing on men, Simpson explained that they often experience depression and anxiety, which frequently go untreated, along with conditions like schizophrenia.

“Because as men, we are taught not to talk about our emotions and feelings, so when things start to bother us, we tend to internalise them. We either worry about the past, which is more than likely depression. Or we worry about the future, which is anxiety.” Family history and stress are factors to feed into these mood disorders.

As a professional in this field, the psychologist revealed that spotting disorders and mental illness might prove to be difficult because men tend to hide them. He did, however, share a few signs and symptoms to look out for.

“Withdrawal from social engagements, especially if they were more sociable, is an indication that something might be going on mentally. Men who tend to drink or smoke more than the usual are showing signs that things may be off as well. If they are experiencing physical pain, but there is no reason or physical cause for it. If you detect issues with and pressures from work, then that might be the root of the problem,” he said, adding, “Also, look out for changes in appetite, eating more or eating less; changes in rest patterns like sleeping more or sleeping less; or changes in sex drive, having the desire for more or less.”

Apart from seeking psychological help, a great way to help and alleviate problems is by participating in stress reducing activities aside from work and family, “Bonding is a crucial activity for males. We don’t necessarily talk about our feelings, but we dispense a lot of our energy on the football field or on the basketball court, in swimming, (or any other sporting activity), relieving a lot of what’s bothering us.”

It is important, however, to find a safe space in which to share your concerns and work towards becoming a healthier man. “I know it is hard to say what is bothering you. This is why I created Loving Minds Associates, so that persons, men specifically, have a place to go and can feel comfortable knowing that what is discussed here, stays here,” he added.

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com