International Men's Day, celebrated on November 19, is dedicated to appreciating the contributions of men to society. Highlight their achievements and the challenges they face. The day also focuses on the importance of men's health, both mental and physical. International Men's Day encourages recognition of positive male role models and support for men in all walks of life.
International Men's Day: History
International Men's Day was founded in 1999 by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh of Trinidad and Tobago. He chose November 19 to honor his father's birthday. Since its inception, the day has gained popularity and is now observed around the world.
READ ALSO: International Men's Day 2024: perfect gifts for the special men in your life
The main objective of this day is to highlight the positive contributions of men and at the same time raise awareness about the challenges they face regarding their health and well-being.
Theme of International Men's Day 2024
The International Men's Day theme for 2024, “Positive Male Role Models”, emphasizes the need to promote open discussions about men's mental health and create supportive spaces where men can thrive.
International Men's Day: Importance
International Men's Day is an important day because it provides an opportunity to celebrate the positive roles that men play in families, communities and workplaces. Raise awareness about the need to focus on men's physical and mental health. The day also addresses topics such as toxic masculinity, gender stereotypes and the pressures men face in society. Promotes equality by supporting the rights and responsibilities of men.
Mental illness in men
Men are typically less likely than women to be diagnosed with mental health disorders, primarily due to social pressures. These pressures lead men to avoid asking for help, making it difficult for them to acknowledge their struggles. As a result, many men go untreated and mental health problems remain undiagnosed. These are the five of the most common male mental health disorders.
Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental health problems among men. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 5.5% of young men experience depression, but it is recognized less frequently than in women. Symptoms may include aggression, risky behaviors, substance abuse, physical problems such as headaches, and changes in appetite, sleep, or concentration, along with persistent fatigue and obsessive thoughts.
Anxiety
Anxiety disorders are common among men and can include conditions such as panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety, and phobias. While women are more likely to experience certain types of anxiety, men are still significantly affected.
Symptoms include excessive worry, restlessness, trouble sleeping, physical discomfort such as muscle tension or headaches, and avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety. Anxiety in men may also be linked to substance use disorder and ADHD.
Substance use disorder
Substance use disorder is a major concern for men, and young men are more likely to use drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with mental health problems. Men drink almost twice as much as women and experience higher rates of alcohol-related deaths.
This behavior is often considered socially acceptable, making it more difficult to identify it as a sign of a deeper problem. Symptoms include problems at work, sleeping problems, weight changes, and risky behaviors.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common mental health problem among men, often caused by trauma such as accidents, assaults, or witnessing violence.
Symptoms may include flashbacks of traumatic events, panic attacks, nightmares, insomnia, irritability, emotional numbness, suicidal thoughts, and avoidance of trauma triggers.
Treatment
Receiving treatment for mental health problems is an important step to feeling better, even though many men avoid it. Treatment can help control symptoms and improve daily life.
Options include therapy, medication, making positive lifestyle changes, and having support from friends or groups. These steps can help men take control of their mental health and begin to heal.
