It’s not uncommon for men’s mental health struggles to go undetected or untreated by friends, family and doctors. Men account for 75-80 percent of deaths by suicide. There are many contributing factors to suicide in men, including substance use, loneliness, shame, or underlying mental illness. Unfortunately, these factors are often missed or attributed to other things, leaving men to suffer in silence.
Let’s learn more about the reasons why suicide rates are higher for men, the symptoms to watch for, and how to support someone in need of help.
Potential Risk Factors for Suicide in Men
While we don’t want to generalize the reasons why men commit suicide, there are reasons that can explain why rates are so high. Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S., with nearly 50,000 people having died by suicide in 2022. Let’s cover the factors that are most likely to affect men.
Societal and cultural expectations
For generations, societal roles have taught men to “man up” and be tough. Showing vulnerability or seeking help for mental health issues is often seen as being weak. Because of this, many men are reluctant to discuss their feelings or seek support, leading to loneliness and isolation.
In reality, men experience a wide range of stressors, such as economic stress, unemployment, or financial instability. The fear of failing to meet these expectations can lead to anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Imagine if men felt comfortable enough to access the support that’s available to them. It could be a game-changer!
Mental health and stigma
Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are significant risk factors for suicide. However, men are less likely to be diagnosed with these conditions compared to women, which means they don’t get the necessary treatment and support. Part of this is due to men’s reluctance to seek help, and part is due to healthcare providers not knowing what symptoms to look for. Men experiencing mental illness are more likely to be agitated and frustrated, whereas women feel more sad and hopeless.
Substance use
Substance use is a significant factor for suicide, and men are more likely to engage in heavy drinking and drug use compared to women. Alcohol and drugs can exacerbate mental health symptoms, impair judgment, and increase impulsivity, making a person more likely to die by suicide. It’s important to know that if a man is struggling with substance use, it’s likely that a mental health issue is at the root of it. With the right treatment and support, they can make a full recovery.
Lethal methods
It’s also true that men are more likely to succeed with suicide than women, contributing to the increased rates. For every death by suicide, approximately 20 suicide attempts are made. Men are more likely to use lethal methods, whereas women are more likely to try poisoning or overdose, which can be reversed.
Spotting the Signs of Suicidal Thinking
Generally speaking, suicide doesn’t just happen out of the blue. People engage in thinking about taking their own life, which is referred to as suicidal ideation or suicidal thoughts. If you’re worried about someone, pay attention to the following signs:
- Noticeable shifts in mood
- Extreme levels of despair and hopelessness
- Excessive drug or alcohol use
- Talking about, writing or researching suicide
- Saying goodbye to friends and family
- High levels of anxiety
- Withdrawing from family and friends
Treatment Options
It’s important for men to know that treatment is available and can accommodate their unique needs. There are even support groups and meetings for men only, which can help some males feel more comfortable opening up and sharing their struggles. Treatment should be comprehensive and include the following:
- Safety plan. Have a plan in place if suicidal ideation becomes a reality. Write down coping strategies, contact information of those who can provide support, and even positive quotes or messages.
- Family support. While your loved one is in treatment, make sure to support them. Participate in family therapy, bring them to appointments, and research local support groups in your area.
- Treatment program. Outpatient programs and residential treatment facilities offer support for substance use and mental health disorders. By treating these conditions simultaneously, your loved one can get healthier faster and decrease their risk for suicide.
- Therapy and medication. There are a wide range of options for treating substance use and mental health disorders, including behavioral therapies, talk therapies, medication, and healthy activities.
Seek Support for Mental Health and Substance Use in Agoura Hills CA
If you feel that a man in your life could benefit from support, contact Awakenings Treatment Center today. We have many programs to support individuals on their path to recovery while addressing mental health problems and substance use disorders. Between our evidence-based therapies and holistic practices, we give individuals hope and show them that it’s possible to turn their lives around and live happy, and free.
