Written by Marc Lehman,
Owner of U ARE HEARD LLC
When it comes to mental health, it’s an issue that affects both men and women alike, but the way they deal with it is different. According to research, male college students are more likely to avoid getting help for their mental health problems. This is alarming because untreated mental health problems could lead to a more severe issue. In this blog post, we will explore why male college students avoid getting help for their mental health and what parents could do about it.
Social Stigma Around Mental Health
In many societies, there is a social stigma attached to mental health. Men are expected to be tough and resilient, and admitting to having a mental health issue is often viewed as a weakness. In college, where social interactions are a significant part of the experience, a male student may not want to be seen as weak or vulnerable. This can make it difficult for them to seek help, even when they need it.
Lack of Awareness
Another reason why male college students avoid seeking help for their mental health is a lack of awareness. Many young men are unaware of the signs and symptoms of mental health problems. They may also not know where to go or who to talk to if they are going through a challenging time. Additionally, they assume that their mental health problems will just go away on their own, and they don’t need any external help.
Fear of Discrimination
In some cases, college students might avoid getting help for their mental health because of the fear of discrimination. They may worry that seeking help will result in discrimination or stigmatization from their peers, professors, or future employers. These fears can be such a significant barrier that students choose to endure the pain rather than face discrimination.
Financial Considerations
For some college students, the financial burden of seeking help for their mental health can deter them from seeking support. The cost of seeing a mental health professional, applying for medication, or taking time off from work or school can be high and, for some, unaffordable. Lack of access to affordable or free mental health services can discourage students from seeking help.
Lack of Resources and Support
Finally, male college students may avoid seeking help for their mental health because of a lack of resources and support. Counseling centers or mental health services may not be adequately advertised or available to students. Moreover, college students may not know how to identify reliable resources that can help support them with their mental health problems.
Male college students avoiding getting help for their mental health is a prominent issue. However, there are steps that can be taken to address this problem. Parents can help by ensuring their sons are aware of mental health problems, available resources, and services on campus. It is also necessary to encourage young men to seek support and manage the stigma surrounding mental health. By promoting an open and supportive environment, we can encourage male students to seek help for their mental health issues without fear or anxiety.
It’s time to support our male students’ mental health and create a more inclusive and supportive society.