Why are men less likely to show signs of needing mental health support?

A survey by Onepoll, a survey agency, in collaboration with Vida Health, an online health institution, shows that men tend to conceal their mental health conditions, especially when they are seeking or have received professional help.

Vida Health believes there is a stigma attached to men with mental health conditions requiring assistance.

Sixty-three percent of male respondents admitted to hiding the fact that they had received mental health treatment, compared to only 34% of women.

Among men, 50% felt ashamed to admit they had consulted a specialist, while 40% felt it was embarrassing or made them feel inferior.

Furthermore, 39% feared that their loved ones would find out they were undergoing therapy.

These figures are higher than those for women, with only 23% feeling ashamed, 17% feeling embarrassed, and 16% feeling afraid.

The Dangers of Concealing Mental Health Conditions

Vida Health notes that this heightened sense of shame may explain why diagnosed men with mental health conditions report more frequent coping mechanisms.

Respondents based in the United States reported frequently coping through alcohol abuse (49%), substance abuse (40%), and self-harm (35%).

These behaviors appear far less common among women. Only 27% reported alcohol abuse, 23% admitted to substance abuse, and 20% resorted to self-harm.

Only 32% of total respondents disagreed with the statement that men are less emotional than women. This means that the majority (68%) agreed that men are less emotional, and therefore, less likely to suffer from mental health problems.

Meanwhile, 55% believed that women have better support systems than men, making them more likely to seek help for their mental health.

Mark Hedstrom, Executive Director of US Movember, explained that the stigma of appearing weak, vulnerable, and seeking help for mental health remains very strong for many men. They are expected to always remain strong.

"As a society, we need to break down these barriers and help men understand the importance of opening up and getting help during difficult times. We also need to look out for each other, check in on the men in your lives; it really will start a conversation that could save lives," said Hedstrom in the Vida Health report.

This survey involved 2,004 respondents in the United States. The research was published on October 13, 2021.