Australian research shows six in 10 have sought professional help for their #mentalhealth

Expert puts Australian vets’ worsening #mentalhealth down to increasing client demands, changes in attitudes towards veterinary care, increasing costs and dealing with people who can’t afford them.

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New research shows nearly 70% of #veterinarians have lost a colleague or peer to #suicide and about six in 10 have sought professional help for their #mentalhealth.

For those with decades of experience, including former Australian Veterinary Association national president Dr Warwick Vale, the figures come as no surprise.

Like many, he’s struggled with #mentalillness and had close colleagues take their own lives.

“ don’t have same sort of optimism and haven’t probably had the same luck or good fortune to have the benefits realised for themselves in their career,” Vale told AAP.

“That’s not right - it’s a tragedy. It’s an issue we’ve got to solve and I think the problem is probably getting worse.”

The research, led by Dr Nadine Hamilton with the backing of petfood maker Royal Canin, reflects long-running issues in the sector.

Another larger study by the veterinary association showed about 67% of #vets have experienced a #mentalhealthcondition at some point.

Vale puts vets’ worsening #mentalhealth down to increasing client demands, changes in attitudes towards veterinary care, increasing costs and dealing with people who can’t afford them.

“It’s quite demotivating for #vets to have to cut corners on treatment or euthanise animals because of a lack of resources to treat the animal,” he said.

Vale said the profession has a lot of “housekeeping” to do when it comes to better supporting workers and ensuring the industry’s viability.

He said some work 12-hour days without lunch breaks, earn $50,000 a year and deal with abuse from clients.

“We’re trying to fix people after they’re broken, when really we should be concentrating on preventing them from breaking,” he said.

Melbourne #vet Dr Morgan Baum was lucky enough to find a supportive workplace that mitigates the hardships faced by other new graduates.

However, she and Vale agreed there’s a big disconnect between #vets and the community.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Hamilton’s research found nearly eight in 10 Australian pet owners do not know the incidence of #suicide among #vets is four times the national average.

About four in 10 believe vets’ salaries are more than $100,000, when entry-level vets with up to three years’ experience earn an average of $87,810.

“People are truly treating their pets as their #children and if they want the best care … it’s important vets are of sound mind and happy, and enjoying what they’re doing to provide that care,” Baum said.

She said vets were constantly in a flux of highs and lows; moving from one euthanasia appointment to an appointment with a family’s new puppy or kitten.

“When you go home with your family and friends, you’re just too drained to talk to anyone.”

Vale said unlike medical services for humans, animal services received little government support, with no tax incentives for pet care and few resources for training.

He pointed to one vet practice in Western Australia that has had to suspend its weekend emergency service.

“Without a community contribution and the community recognizing that we’ll be poorer and worse off without a veterinary service … then we’re going to see closure, especially in country and regional areas,” Vale said.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2022/11/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-nearly-70-of-veterinarians-have-lost-a-colleague-or-peer-to-suicide-study-finds/

- Josh Flynn Staff Reporter

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Pexels.com

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

http://www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Each year, June is celebrated as #Pride month, a recognition of #LGBTQ culture and lives. The month is a tribute to the 1969 Stonewall Riots, which set in motion a movement of freedom and acceptance for #queer people. For some, it’s also a time to remember younger, more vulnerable members of the community.

#Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24, according to the #CenterforDiseaseControl, and the rate increased when it came to young #LGTBQ community members.

“Being #LGBTQ+ is not a #mentalillness,” said Nicole Hiatt-Drang, chief clinical officer at Four County, 800 N. Fulton St. “#LGBTQ+ individuals can, however, face unique #mentalhealthchallenges due to #stigma, bias and discrimination.”

#Anxiety has heightened in the community as many states pass laws that deal specifically with #transgender people and their families. Members and advocates of the #LGBTQ community also worry same-sex marriage could be targeted next in the wake of the Roe V. Wade Supreme Court leak.

“We know #anxiety and #depression has increased across the board during the #pandemic, roughly 25%, and I think when you add then the #stigma, bias, discrimination to any community — in this case particularly the #LGTBQ+ community — I think then there is a greater risk to experience symptoms of #anxiety and #depression, among other things,” Hiatt-Drang said. “For us to provide a safe place to talk about those things is of the utmost importance.”

The #TrevorProject, a nonprofit focused on #suicideprevention among #youth in the #LGBTQ community, reported in their 2022 survey on #LGTBQ #mentalhealth that 45% of #youth had considered #suicide in the last year and 14% went on to attempt it. The percentage was up 5% from the past several years, they said.

#Suicidalthoughts were higher for non-#white and non-#Asian #children.

Sixty percent of #LGTBQ #youth who sought #mentalhealthcare were also unable to find it, the survey reported.

While there were many reasons youth were unable to or did not reach out for counseling — such as transportation to counseling and cost — fear was frequently cited in the breakdown: a general fear of #mentalhealthservices, a fear of being taken seriously, a fear of being outed, a fear their #genderidentity won’t be respected and concerns related to asking #parents of #caregivers for help.

Hyatt-Drang said there was no need to worry about a lot of these issues. Even with #patients under the age of 18, sessions are confidential. #Parents are only alerted if there is a risk of danger.

“When an #adolescent comes to us, what they want to speak about is confidential unless we feel they are a danger to themself or others,” she said. “At that point safety is our concern. But confidentiality is our priority.”

Services provided by Four County include skills training, such as symptom management for #anxiety and #depression and outpatient therapy (including online sessions). They host a variety of groups including ones that focus more on issues of #substanceabuse or #trauma.

Hiatt-Drang said #parents, family, #caregivers and friends should watch for certain #behaviors that may indicate intent to harm oneself. These include someone openly talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself, searching for ways to commit #suicide online or obtaining a gun, feeling hopeless or saying they have no reason to live, talking about being a burden to others, increased #drug or #alcohol use, anxiousness or behaving recklessly, sleeping too much or too little, giving possessions away, withdrawing and isolating oneself or showing extreme mood swings.

“I think the biggest thing is for parents to ask the question,” she said. “I think there is a misconception that by asking the question you might give someone the idea. That’s not the case. Talk about your concerns with your #child and ask questions–”Are you feeling like harming yourself?”, “Do you have thoughts of #suicide?” There are resources in our community they can use based on the answer.”

“One suicide in any community, at any age, is too many,” Hiatt-Drang said. “Our goal must always be zero.”

She also said there are individual and family counseling options available for #parents who may struggle with acceptance when their #child comes out.

Hiatt-Drang encouraged #LGTBQ #youth to seek out people who support them, to advocate for themselves and to know there are people who will help. She said while there is still a lot of work to do, society has come a long way in embracing diversity, equity and inclusion.

“You’re not alone,” she said.

In cases of emergency, call the Four County crisis line at 1-800-552-3106. Those who need help may also call the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text IN to 741-741.

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Pexels.com
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2022/11/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-stigma-discrimination-increases-suiciderisk-in-lgtbq-youths/

- Josh Flynn Staff Reporter

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Pexels.com

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

http://www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Each year, June is celebrated as #Pride month, a recognition of #LGBTQ culture and lives. The month is a tribute to the 1969 Stonewall Riots, which set in motion a movement of freedom and acceptance for #queer people. For some, it’s also a time to remember younger, more vulnerable members of the community.

#Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24, according to the #CenterforDiseaseControl, and the rate increased when it came to young #LGTBQ community members.

“Being #LGBTQ+ is not a #mentalillness,” said Nicole Hiatt-Drang, chief clinical officer at Four County, 800 N. Fulton St. “#LGBTQ+ individuals can, however, face unique #mentalhealthchallenges due to #stigma, bias and discrimination.”

#Anxiety has heightened in the community as many states pass laws that deal specifically with #transgender people and their families. Members and advocates of the #LGBTQ community also worry same-sex marriage could be targeted next in the wake of the Roe V. Wade Supreme Court leak.

“We know #anxiety and #depression has increased across the board during the #pandemic, roughly 25%, and I think when you add then the #stigma, bias, discrimination to any community — in this case particularly the #LGTBQ+ community — I think then there is a greater risk to experience symptoms of #anxiety and #depression, among other things,” Hiatt-Drang said. “For us to provide a safe place to talk about those things is of the utmost importance.”

The #TrevorProject, a nonprofit focused on #suicideprevention among #youth in the #LGBTQ community, reported in their 2022 survey on #LGTBQ #mentalhealth that 45% of #youth had considered #suicide in the last year and 14% went on to attempt it. The percentage was up 5% from the past several years, they said.

#Suicidalthoughts were higher for non-#white and non-#Asian #children.

Sixty percent of #LGTBQ #youth who sought #mentalhealthcare were also unable to find it, the survey reported.

While there were many reasons youth were unable to or did not reach out for counseling — such as transportation to counseling and cost — fear was frequently cited in the breakdown: a general fear of #mentalhealthservices, a fear of being taken seriously, a fear of being outed, a fear their #genderidentity won’t be respected and concerns related to asking #parents of #caregivers for help.

Hyatt-Drang said there was no need to worry about a lot of these issues. Even with #patients under the age of 18, sessions are confidential. #Parents are only alerted if there is a risk of danger.

“When an #adolescent comes to us, what they want to speak about is confidential unless we feel they are a danger to themself or others,” she said. “At that point safety is our concern. But confidentiality is our priority.”

Services provided by Four County include skills training, such as symptom management for #anxiety and #depression and outpatient therapy (including online sessions). They host a variety of groups including ones that focus more on issues of #substanceabuse or #trauma.

Hiatt-Drang said #parents, family, #caregivers and friends should watch for certain #behaviors that may indicate intent to harm oneself. These include someone openly talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself, searching for ways to commit #suicide online or obtaining a gun, feeling hopeless or saying they have no reason to live, talking about being a burden to others, increased #drug or #alcohol use, anxiousness or behaving recklessly, sleeping too much or too little, giving possessions away, withdrawing and isolating oneself or showing extreme mood swings.

“I think the biggest thing is for parents to ask the question,” she said. “I think there is a misconception that by asking the question you might give someone the idea. That’s not the case. Talk about your concerns with your #child and ask questions–”Are you feeling like harming yourself?”, “Do you have thoughts of #suicide?” There are resources in our community they can use based on the answer.”

“One suicide in any community, at any age, is too many,” Hiatt-Drang said. “Our goal must always be zero.”

She also said there are individual and family counseling options available for #parents who may struggle with acceptance when their #child comes out.

Hiatt-Drang encouraged #LGTBQ #youth to seek out people who support them, to advocate for themselves and to know there are people who will help. She said while there is still a lot of work to do, society has come a long way in embracing diversity, equity and inclusion.

“You’re not alone,” she said.

In cases of emergency, call the Four County crisis line at 1-800-552-3106. Those who need help may also call the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text IN to 741-741.

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Pexels.com
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2022/11/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-stigma-discrimination-increases-suiciderisk-in-lgtbq-youths/

- Josh Flynn Staff Reporter

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Pexels.com

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

http://www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Each year, June is celebrated as #Pride month, a recognition of #LGBTQ culture and lives. The month is a tribute to the 1969 Stonewall Riots, which set in motion a movement of freedom and acceptance for #queer people. For some, it’s also a time to remember younger, more vulnerable members of the community.

#Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24, according to the #CenterforDiseaseControl, and the rate increased when it came to young #LGTBQ community members.

“Being #LGBTQ+ is not a #mentalillness,” said Nicole Hiatt-Drang, chief clinical officer at Four County, 800 N. Fulton St. “#LGBTQ+ individuals can, however, face unique #mentalhealthchallenges due to #stigma, bias and discrimination.”

#Anxiety has heightened in the community as many states pass laws that deal specifically with #transgender people and their families. Members and advocates of the #LGBTQ community also worry same-sex marriage could be targeted next in the wake of the Roe V. Wade Supreme Court leak.

“We know #anxiety and #depression has increased across the board during the #pandemic, roughly 25%, and I think when you add then the #stigma, bias, discrimination to any community — in this case particularly the #LGTBQ+ community — I think then there is a greater risk to experience symptoms of #anxiety and #depression, among other things,” Hiatt-Drang said. “For us to provide a safe place to talk about those things is of the utmost importance.”

The #TrevorProject, a nonprofit focused on #suicideprevention among #youth in the #LGBTQ community, reported in their 2022 survey on #LGTBQ #mentalhealth that 45% of #youth had considered #suicide in the last year and 14% went on to attempt it. The percentage was up 5% from the past several years, they said.

#Suicidalthoughts were higher for non-#white and non-#Asian #children.

Sixty percent of #LGTBQ #youth who sought #mentalhealthcare were also unable to find it, the survey reported.

While there were many reasons youth were unable to or did not reach out for counseling — such as transportation to counseling and cost — fear was frequently cited in the breakdown: a general fear of #mentalhealthservices, a fear of being taken seriously, a fear of being outed, a fear their #genderidentity won’t be respected and concerns related to asking #parents of #caregivers for help.

Hyatt-Drang said there was no need to worry about a lot of these issues. Even with #patients under the age of 18, sessions are confidential. #Parents are only alerted if there is a risk of danger.

“When an #adolescent comes to us, what they want to speak about is confidential unless we feel they are a danger to themself or others,” she said. “At that point safety is our concern. But confidentiality is our priority.”

Services provided by Four County include skills training, such as symptom management for #anxiety and #depression and outpatient therapy (including online sessions). They host a variety of groups including ones that focus more on issues of #substanceabuse or #trauma.

Hiatt-Drang said #parents, family, #caregivers and friends should watch for certain #behaviors that may indicate intent to harm oneself. These include someone openly talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself, searching for ways to commit #suicide online or obtaining a gun, feeling hopeless or saying they have no reason to live, talking about being a burden to others, increased #drug or #alcohol use, anxiousness or behaving recklessly, sleeping too much or too little, giving possessions away, withdrawing and isolating oneself or showing extreme mood swings.

“I think the biggest thing is for parents to ask the question,” she said. “I think there is a misconception that by asking the question you might give someone the idea. That’s not the case. Talk about your concerns with your #child and ask questions–”Are you feeling like harming yourself?”, “Do you have thoughts of #suicide?” There are resources in our community they can use based on the answer.”

“One suicide in any community, at any age, is too many,” Hiatt-Drang said. “Our goal must always be zero.”

She also said there are individual and family counseling options available for #parents who may struggle with acceptance when their #child comes out.

Hiatt-Drang encouraged #LGTBQ #youth to seek out people who support them, to advocate for themselves and to know there are people who will help. She said while there is still a lot of work to do, society has come a long way in embracing diversity, equity and inclusion.

“You’re not alone,” she said.

In cases of emergency, call the Four County crisis line at 1-800-552-3106. Those who need help may also call the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text IN to 741-741.

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Pexels.com
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=10299

- Josh Flynn Staff Reporter

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Pexels.com

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

http://www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Each year, June is celebrated as #Pride month, a recognition of #LGBTQ culture and lives. The month is a tribute to the 1969 Stonewall Riots, which set in motion a movement of freedom and acceptance for #queer people. For some, it’s also a time to remember younger, more vulnerable members of the community.

#Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 24, according to the #CenterforDiseaseControl, and the rate increased when it came to young #LGTBQ community members.

“Being #LGBTQ+ is not a #mentalillness,” said Nicole Hiatt-Drang, chief clinical officer at Four County, 800 N. Fulton St. “#LGBTQ+ individuals can, however, face unique #mentalhealthchallenges due to #stigma, bias and discrimination.”

#Anxiety has heightened in the community as many states pass laws that deal specifically with #transgender people and their families. Members and advocates of the #LGBTQ community also worry same-sex marriage could be targeted next in the wake of the Roe V. Wade Supreme Court leak.

“We know #anxiety and #depression has increased across the board during the #pandemic, roughly 25%, and I think when you add then the #stigma, bias, discrimination to any community — in this case particularly the #LGTBQ+ community — I think then there is a greater risk to experience symptoms of #anxiety and #depression, among other things,” Hiatt-Drang said. “For us to provide a safe place to talk about those things is of the utmost importance.”

The #TrevorProject, a nonprofit focused on #suicideprevention among #youth in the #LGBTQ community, reported in their 2022 survey on #LGTBQ #mentalhealth that 45% of #youth had considered #suicide in the last year and 14% went on to attempt it. The percentage was up 5% from the past several years, they said.

#Suicidalthoughts were higher for non-#white and non-#Asian #children.

Sixty percent of #LGTBQ #youth who sought #mentalhealthcare were also unable to find it, the survey reported.

While there were many reasons youth were unable to or did not reach out for counseling — such as transportation to counseling and cost — fear was frequently cited in the breakdown: a general fear of #mentalhealthservices, a fear of being taken seriously, a fear of being outed, a fear their #genderidentity won’t be respected and concerns related to asking #parents of #caregivers for help.

Hyatt-Drang said there was no need to worry about a lot of these issues. Even with #patients under the age of 18, sessions are confidential. #Parents are only alerted if there is a risk of danger.

“When an #adolescent comes to us, what they want to speak about is confidential unless we feel they are a danger to themself or others,” she said. “At that point safety is our concern. But confidentiality is our priority.”

Services provided by Four County include skills training, such as symptom management for #anxiety and #depression and outpatient therapy (including online sessions). They host a variety of groups including ones that focus more on issues of #substanceabuse or #trauma.

Hiatt-Drang said #parents, family, #caregivers and friends should watch for certain #behaviors that may indicate intent to harm oneself. These include someone openly talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself, searching for ways to commit #suicide online or obtaining a gun, feeling hopeless or saying they have no reason to live, talking about being a burden to others, increased #drug or #alcohol use, anxiousness or behaving recklessly, sleeping too much or too little, giving possessions away, withdrawing and isolating oneself or showing extreme mood swings.

“I think the biggest thing is for parents to ask the question,” she said. “I think there is a misconception that by asking the question you might give someone the idea. That’s not the case. Talk about your concerns with your #child and ask questions–”Are you feeling like harming yourself?”, “Do you have thoughts of #suicide?” There are resources in our community they can use based on the answer.”

“One suicide in any community, at any age, is too many,” Hiatt-Drang said. “Our goal must always be zero.”

She also said there are individual and family counseling options available for #parents who may struggle with acceptance when their #child comes out.

Hiatt-Drang encouraged #LGTBQ #youth to seek out people who support them, to advocate for themselves and to know there are people who will help. She said while there is still a lot of work to do, society has come a long way in embracing diversity, equity and inclusion.

“You’re not alone,” she said.

In cases of emergency, call the Four County crisis line at 1-800-552-3106. Those who need help may also call the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text IN to 741-741.

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Pexels.com
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=10299

By Steven C. Schlozman

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I have been a #child #psychiatrist for more than 20 years. I’ve worked in the city, in the suburbs, and in rural settings. I’ve seen #patients in teaching hospitals and I’ve run a busy private practice. In all that time, I have never seen psychiatric suffering as pervasive and intractable as I have over the last 18 months. The lack of real change in our nation’s #child and #adolescent #mentalhealth infrastructure has fostered a pernicious and pervasive defeatism among #patients and clinicians alike.

At its worst, this is manifest as a boarding crisis for young people with #mentalillnesses, who are simply being warehoused in general hospitals. Allowing #children and #adolescents to languish for days, and often weeks, while waiting in general hospitals for a #psychiatric bed to become available is a recipe for #patients and #caregivers to lose all hope that things will ever improve.

This #hopelessness is a major feature of the current emergency. It might even be the major feature. Things will not get better unless the approach to it can effectively remedy this deeply engrained pessimism. #Mentalhealth #stigma has been impressively diminished. Now it’s time to overcome the ugly defeatism that fosters the ongoing inertia in #mentalhealthcare.

The vast majority of #children and #teens who are admitted to general hospitals for #suicidalthoughts and #behaviors do not, in fact, harm themselves while they are waiting for #psychiatric placement. Policy makers may misconstrue this lack of self-harm as decreasing the urgency for authentic structural change in #mentalhealthcare. It ought to be obvious that simply boarding young people in regular hospital beds cannot be the primary solution. #Patients, their families, their #doctors and their communities become increasingly hopeless as the #mentalhealthcrisis continues without any real change.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

http://www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Related: #Pandemic took a toll on #teen #mentalhealth, #CDC report says

The worst part of this #hopelessness is that it becomes, in and of itself, a kind of #nihilistic #contagion. By that I mean a malignant, contagious negativism that co-opts the willingness to change. #Nihilism, after all, means nothingness. This contagion foments the sensation that nothing helpful can be done.

Here is how this psychological contagion spreads:

A #child with #mentalhealthproblems comes to a general hospital and the family quickly learns there are simply no — or very few — treatment options. The tools available for #psychiatric care in general hospitals are extremely limited, and no beds are available for specialized psychological help. People wait days, sometimes weeks, for appropriate treatment to become available. They are too sick to go home, but are in the wrong kind of hospital for what they need most. When #children and #teens become stuck like this, they internalize the message that their suffering is not planned for or taken seriously. They compare this lack of action to the immediacy of treating other illnesses. When they contract strep throat, they receive quick and effective treatment. If they need surgery, they get it. But things are different for serious #mentalillness. #Hopelessness takes hold and spreads through communities and across #socialmedia platforms.

This contagion of #hopelessness can take on many forms. Sometimes #patients and their families simply give up. When combined with incompletely treated #mentalillness, this translates to more lethal attempts at #suicide. No note is left, no warning given, and children either die or come nearer to dying at their own hands. These tragic events tend to come to light when a #suicide triggers a local or #socialmedia headline that, in turn, leads to an increase in others who harm themselves. This phenomenon, called the #suicide contagion effect, has been well documented for decades.

Related: Virtual therapy startups tackle the gap in #mentalhealth care for #kids and #teens

Some #youths internalize the #hopelessness. #Adolescents especially embrace the role of being “the #kid with a problem that no one cares about,” a consequence of poor resource availability and the normal drive toward identity that is characteristic of coming of age. In other words, these young people identify first and foremost as being sick with an intractable societal problem. This feeling is then continually reinforced and perpetuated by the inadequacies of the health care system. And as they share their views with others, the #hopelessness spreads.

I think that things have been so bad for so long that no one remembers that the U.S. health care system, and indeed our entire culture, can do better. This #nihilism reminds me of a #virus because it gets under individuals’ emotional skin. People feel sick with inaction and feverish with frustration. These feelings, just like a #virus, spread quickly and aggressively through entire communities.

Related: Facing a broken #mentalhealth system, many U.S. #teens fall off a dangerous ‘cliff’ in their care

But it is important to remember that the same frustrations existed for a very long time with regard to the #stigma associated with #mentalillness. Indeed, the strides made against this bias in many ways can explain today’s predicament. More people are willing to look for help, but the #mentalhealthcare system hasn’t caught up with those increased numbers.

The first step toward fixing the boarding crisis for #children and #adolescents with #mentalhealthproblems is to acknowledge, unequivocally, that this mess is fixable. It will take financial resources and creative inspiration and genuine structural change. It will certainly take bipartisan support. And it will be costly. Still, it is possible.

Refusing to act is immoral. It is also emotionally and financially devastating for everyone. A spirit of optimism is more essential than ever. This is no time to surrender hope. The country’s #children and #adolescents deserve better.

Steven C. Schlozman is a staff #child #psychiatrist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, and associate professor of psychiatry at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2022/11/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-hopelessness-around-youth-mentalhealth-is-creating-a-nihilistic-contagion/

By Steven C. Schlozman

I have been a #child #psychiatrist for more than 20 years. I’ve worked in the city, in the suburbs, and in rural settings. I’ve seen #patients in teaching hospitals and I’ve run a busy private practice. In all that time, I have never seen psychiatric suffering as pervasive and intractable as I have over the last 18 months. The lack of real change in our nation’s #child and #adolescent #mentalhealth infrastructure has fostered a pernicious and pervasive defeatism among #patients and clinicians alike.

At its worst, this is manifest as a boarding crisis for young people with #mentalillnesses, who are simply being warehoused in general hospitals. Allowing #children and #adolescents to languish for days, and often weeks, while waiting in general hospitals for a #psychiatric bed to become available is a recipe for #patients and #caregivers to lose all hope that things will ever improve.

This #hopelessness is a major feature of the current emergency. It might even be the major feature. Things will not get better unless the approach to it can effectively remedy this deeply engrained pessimism. #Mentalhealth #stigma has been impressively diminished. Now it’s time to overcome the ugly defeatism that fosters the ongoing inertia in #mentalhealthcare.

The vast majority of #children and #teens who are admitted to general hospitals for #suicidalthoughts and #behaviors do not, in fact, harm themselves while they are waiting for #psychiatric placement. Policy makers may misconstrue this lack of self-harm as decreasing the urgency for authentic structural change in #mentalhealthcare. It ought to be obvious that simply boarding young people in regular hospital beds cannot be the primary solution. #Patients, their families, their #doctors and their communities become increasingly hopeless as the #mentalhealthcrisis continues without any real change.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

http://www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Related: #Pandemic took a toll on #teen #mentalhealth, #CDC report says

The worst part of this #hopelessness is that it becomes, in and of itself, a kind of #nihilistic #contagion. By that I mean a malignant, contagious negativism that co-opts the willingness to change. #Nihilism, after all, means nothingness. This contagion foments the sensation that nothing helpful can be done.

Here is how this psychological contagion spreads:

A #child with #mentalhealthproblems comes to a general hospital and the family quickly learns there are simply no — or very few — treatment options. The tools available for #psychiatric care in general hospitals are extremely limited, and no beds are available for specialized psychological help. People wait days, sometimes weeks, for appropriate treatment to become available. They are too sick to go home, but are in the wrong kind of hospital for what they need most. When #children and #teens become stuck like this, they internalize the message that their suffering is not planned for or taken seriously. They compare this lack of action to the immediacy of treating other illnesses. When they contract strep throat, they receive quick and effective treatment. If they need surgery, they get it. But things are different for serious #mentalillness. #Hopelessness takes hold and spreads through communities and across #socialmedia platforms.

This contagion of #hopelessness can take on many forms. Sometimes #patients and their families simply give up. When combined with incompletely treated #mentalillness, this translates to more lethal attempts at #suicide. No note is left, no warning given, and children either die or come nearer to dying at their own hands. These tragic events tend to come to light when a #suicide triggers a local or #socialmedia headline that, in turn, leads to an increase in others who harm themselves. This phenomenon, called the #suicide contagion effect, has been well documented for decades.

Related: Virtual therapy startups tackle the gap in #mentalhealth care for #kids and #teens

Some #youths internalize the #hopelessness. #Adolescents especially embrace the role of being “the #kid with a problem that no one cares about,” a consequence of poor resource availability and the normal drive toward identity that is characteristic of coming of age. In other words, these young people identify first and foremost as being sick with an intractable societal problem. This feeling is then continually reinforced and perpetuated by the inadequacies of the health care system. And as they share their views with others, the #hopelessness spreads.

I think that things have been so bad for so long that no one remembers that the U.S. health care system, and indeed our entire culture, can do better. This #nihilism reminds me of a #virus because it gets under individuals’ emotional skin. People feel sick with inaction and feverish with frustration. These feelings, just like a #virus, spread quickly and aggressively through entire communities.

Related: Facing a broken #mentalhealth system, many U.S. #teens fall off a dangerous ‘cliff’ in their care

But it is important to remember that the same frustrations existed for a very long time with regard to the #stigma associated with #mentalillness. Indeed, the strides made against this bias in many ways can explain today’s predicament. More people are willing to look for help, but the #mentalhealthcare system hasn’t caught up with those increased numbers.

The first step toward fixing the boarding crisis for #children and #adolescents with #mentalhealthproblems is to acknowledge, unequivocally, that this mess is fixable. It will take financial resources and creative inspiration and genuine structural change. It will certainly take bipartisan support. And it will be costly. Still, it is possible.

Refusing to act is immoral. It is also emotionally and financially devastating for everyone. A spirit of optimism is more essential than ever. This is no time to surrender hope. The country’s #children and #adolescents deserve better.

Steven C. Schlozman is a staff #child #psychiatrist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, and associate professor of psychiatry at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=10268

By Steven C. Schlozman

I have been a #child #psychiatrist for more than 20 years. I’ve worked in the city, in the suburbs, and in rural settings. I’ve seen #patients in teaching hospitals and I’ve run a busy private practice. In all that time, I have never seen psychiatric suffering as pervasive and intractable as I have over the last 18 months. The lack of real change in our nation’s #child and #adolescent #mentalhealth infrastructure has fostered a pernicious and pervasive defeatism among #patients and clinicians alike.

At its worst, this is manifest as a boarding crisis for young people with #mentalillnesses, who are simply being warehoused in general hospitals. Allowing #children and #adolescents to languish for days, and often weeks, while waiting in general hospitals for a #psychiatric bed to become available is a recipe for #patients and #caregivers to lose all hope that things will ever improve.

This #hopelessness is a major feature of the current emergency. It might even be the major feature. Things will not get better unless the approach to it can effectively remedy this deeply engrained pessimism. #Mentalhealth #stigma has been impressively diminished. Now it’s time to overcome the ugly defeatism that fosters the ongoing inertia in #mentalhealthcare.

The vast majority of #children and #teens who are admitted to general hospitals for #suicidalthoughts and #behaviors do not, in fact, harm themselves while they are waiting for #psychiatric placement. Policy makers may misconstrue this lack of self-harm as decreasing the urgency for authentic structural change in #mentalhealthcare. It ought to be obvious that simply boarding young people in regular hospital beds cannot be the primary solution. #Patients, their families, their #doctors and their communities become increasingly hopeless as the #mentalhealthcrisis continues without any real change.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

http://www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Related: #Pandemic took a toll on #teen #mentalhealth, #CDC report says

The worst part of this #hopelessness is that it becomes, in and of itself, a kind of #nihilistic #contagion. By that I mean a malignant, contagious negativism that co-opts the willingness to change. #Nihilism, after all, means nothingness. This contagion foments the sensation that nothing helpful can be done.

Here is how this psychological contagion spreads:

A #child with #mentalhealthproblems comes to a general hospital and the family quickly learns there are simply no — or very few — treatment options. The tools available for #psychiatric care in general hospitals are extremely limited, and no beds are available for specialized psychological help. People wait days, sometimes weeks, for appropriate treatment to become available. They are too sick to go home, but are in the wrong kind of hospital for what they need most. When #children and #teens become stuck like this, they internalize the message that their suffering is not planned for or taken seriously. They compare this lack of action to the immediacy of treating other illnesses. When they contract strep throat, they receive quick and effective treatment. If they need surgery, they get it. But things are different for serious #mentalillness. #Hopelessness takes hold and spreads through communities and across #socialmedia platforms.

This contagion of #hopelessness can take on many forms. Sometimes #patients and their families simply give up. When combined with incompletely treated #mentalillness, this translates to more lethal attempts at #suicide. No note is left, no warning given, and children either die or come nearer to dying at their own hands. These tragic events tend to come to light when a #suicide triggers a local or #socialmedia headline that, in turn, leads to an increase in others who harm themselves. This phenomenon, called the #suicide contagion effect, has been well documented for decades.

Related: Virtual therapy startups tackle the gap in #mentalhealth care for #kids and #teens

Some #youths internalize the #hopelessness. #Adolescents especially embrace the role of being “the #kid with a problem that no one cares about,” a consequence of poor resource availability and the normal drive toward identity that is characteristic of coming of age. In other words, these young people identify first and foremost as being sick with an intractable societal problem. This feeling is then continually reinforced and perpetuated by the inadequacies of the health care system. And as they share their views with others, the #hopelessness spreads.

I think that things have been so bad for so long that no one remembers that the U.S. health care system, and indeed our entire culture, can do better. This #nihilism reminds me of a #virus because it gets under individuals’ emotional skin. People feel sick with inaction and feverish with frustration. These feelings, just like a #virus, spread quickly and aggressively through entire communities.

Related: Facing a broken #mentalhealth system, many U.S. #teens fall off a dangerous ‘cliff’ in their care

But it is important to remember that the same frustrations existed for a very long time with regard to the #stigma associated with #mentalillness. Indeed, the strides made against this bias in many ways can explain today’s predicament. More people are willing to look for help, but the #mentalhealthcare system hasn’t caught up with those increased numbers.

The first step toward fixing the boarding crisis for #children and #adolescents with #mentalhealthproblems is to acknowledge, unequivocally, that this mess is fixable. It will take financial resources and creative inspiration and genuine structural change. It will certainly take bipartisan support. And it will be costly. Still, it is possible.

Refusing to act is immoral. It is also emotionally and financially devastating for everyone. A spirit of optimism is more essential than ever. This is no time to surrender hope. The country’s #children and #adolescents deserve better.

Steven C. Schlozman is a staff #child #psychiatrist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, and associate professor of psychiatry at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=10268

#Transgender #men face a number of unique #mentalhealthconcerns. Working past personal and societal stigmas may help them access care and find the help they need.

Some #mentalhealthconditions are more common in #transgender #men. Treatments, including #hormonetherapy, may help alleviate symptoms of #mentalhealthissues, though not everyone wants these.

As a close friend or family member of a #transgender #man, there are some ways to support their transition and #mentalhealth. This can include holding space for them or offering support to find quality #mentalhealthcare.

Keep reading to learn more about #mentalhealth in #transgender #men, from common issues, the unique difficulties #transgender men may face, and how to help and support them.

#Mentalhealth in #transgender #men

#Genderaffirming environments can help support the #mentalhealth of a #transgender #man.

A study in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine notes the difference between markers of #mentalhealth in #cisgender people of college age and gender minority people. In this context, #gender minority means those who identify with a #gender other than they were assigned at birth.

In general, #gender minority people seem to have a significantly higher prevalence of #mentalhealth symptoms.

According to this study, #gender minority people are more than four times as likely to have at least one #mentalhealthproblem compared with their #cisgender counterparts.

Possible #mentalhealthdisorders include:

- #depression

- #anxiety

- #self-harm

- #eatingdisorders

- #suicidalthoughts or tendencies

A similar study in BMC Public HealthTrusted Source also found that #transgender people were more likely to experience reduced life satisfaction and increased signs of #loneliness.

There are a number of reasons why this may be the case.

For more research-backed information and resources for men’s #health, please visit our dedicated hub.

Unique challenges

There are many contributing factors why #transgender #men and #transgender people may face more #mentalhealthconditions than other groups.

Overall, #transgender people may have increased stressors throughout their lives than their #cisgender peers when it comes to #sexualorientation and #genderidentity.

These stressors may include:

- rejection from family

- rejection by loved ones

- low #self-esteem

- poor coping skills

- body image issues

- poor sexual satisfaction

- avoidant #behaviors

The effect of these stressors throughout life may contribute to lower #mentalhealth.

#Loneliness may also play a role in #mentalhealthissues.

A study in the Journal of Clinical MedicineTrusted Source notes that social #loneliness was the main predictor of poor #mentalhealth in #transgender people.

In #transgender #men, specifically, romantic #loneliness appears to be the strongest factor. The study associated higher levels of #loneliness with lower levels of #mentalhealth.

As #loneliness may be more likely in #transgender people, its effects may manifest as poor #mentalhealth.

Societal expectations may also play a role. Social attitudes to gender expression can vary greatly from one place to the next.

Because of this, #transgender men may face discrimination throughout their lives. They may experience:

- possible violence

- personal prejudices

- social #stigma

These factors can influence the negative #mentalhealth aspects that #transgender people sometimes experience.

The #stigma surrounding both #mentalhealth and #gender minority identities may also keep people from reaching out or seeking help.

This silence itself may reduce the access a person has to support and may promote a cycle of needing help, feeling bad for needing help, and feeling even worse because of this trap.

Leaving these issues untreated may lead to worsened #mentalhealth and, in extreme cases, to deep #depression or #suicide.

#Suicideprevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of #self-harm, #suicide, or hurting another person:

- Ask the tough question: “Are you considering #suicide?”

- Listen to the person without judgment.

- Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis #counselor.

- Stay with the person until professional help arrives.

- Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of #suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The #988SuicideandCrisisLifeline is available 24 hours a day at #988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then #988.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

#Mentalhealth effects in #transgender #men

#Mentalhealthissues may affect #transgender #men differently than their #cisgender peers, especially if the person does not have access to #genderaffirming treatments.

Treatments that affirm #genderidentity may help ease symptoms, while treatments that deny someone’s identity may not.

#Mentalhealthissues may also affect #transgender #men differently than #cisgender people if they do not have access to a proper support system.

Whether from their peer group, family, or general population, acceptance of a person’s #genderidentity may be a big step toward improving their #mentalhealth.

#Drugs, #hormones, and #mentalhealth

#Genderaffirminghormonetherapy (#GAHT) involves giving a person with #genderdysphoria safe doses of hormones to help them transition to their true #genderidentity.

A review in Current Psychiatry ReportsTrusted Source notes that overall, GAHT has positive psychological impacts on both #adolescents and #adults.

GAHT reduces symptoms of #mentalhealthissues, such as #anxiety and #depression, reduces markers of social #stress, and improves quality of life and #self-esteem.

Hormone therapy is often an integral part of alleviating #genderdysphoria and may be key to treating underlying #mentalhealthissues.

It is important to note that while many #transgender people choose GAHT to help affirm their #genderidentity, not all #transgender people will opt for or even desire this treatment.

How to support people during transition

As a friend or family member of a #transgender #man, it may be difficult to imagine what they are going through during transition. A cisgender person may never completely understand the process or difficulty a #transgender person faces during these times.

Crucially, friends and family members of a #transgender #man can aim to be supportive.

Creating a #genderaffirming environment in a familial or social setting may help ease #genderdysphoria. It may also make it easier to facilitate treatment for underlying #mentalhealthconditions.

As part of this supportive role, it may help to:

- become educated about #transgender issues and solutions

- use the person’s favored pronouns and name

- keep the lines of communication open

- listen without being judgemental

- avoid making assumptions about someone’s sexual preferences, #gender roles, or desire for treatment

- advocate for #transgenderrights

It can take time to adjust to a person’s identity as they transition, and the change may produce reactions, judgments, or confusion.

#Mentalhealthprofessionals and support groups may offer tools and resources, not just for the #transgender person undergoing the transition, but for those close to them, as well.

Treatment

As the National LGBT Health Education Center note, the #mentalillness and #mentalhealth of a #transgender person are entirely separate from the fact that they are #transgender. Proper treatment will reflect this.

#Genderdysphoria, or the feeling or #stress of a person not having the same #genderidentity as the sex they were assigned at birth, is a #mentalhealthdisorder, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of #MentalHealthDisorders (DSM-5).

While many #transgender people may struggle with #genderdysphoria, and seek treatment for it, having a #transgender identity is not the same thing. It is not in the DSM-5, as it is not a form of psychopathy.

For most people, affirming their #genderidentity through gender-affirming health practices and treatments can treat their feelings of #genderdysphoria.

Some people will need hormone therapy and surgery to fully alleviate their #genderdysphoria, while others may not need either.

In many cases treating #genderdysphoria may reduce signs of #mentalhealthissues, such as #depression and #anxiety.

Properly treating #genderdysphoria can reduce the stressors on a #transgender person and help them focus on any underlying issues.

While focusing on #gender-affirming treatments, #mentalhealthspecialists can also diagnose and treat any other underlying #mentalhealthissues, such as #depression, #anxiety, or #eatingdisorders.

Treatment for individual #mentalhealthissues can vary greatly. Therapies may include a combination of prescription medications and various forms of psychotherapy.

It is essential that these treatments also integrate gender-affirming environments and therapies that support favorable outcomes in #transgender people.

Summary

#Transgender #men face unique #mentalhealthissues, and working towards a solution is a delicate process.

Some drugs and hormone therapy may alleviate stressful symptoms, though not every #transgender #man will choose these options.

It is important to support someone through their transition and as they seek #mentalhealthcare when they need it.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2022/11/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-mentalhealth-for-transgender-men-what-to-know/

#Transgender #men face a number of unique #mentalhealthconcerns. Working past personal and societal stigmas may help them access care and find the help they need.

Some #mentalhealthconditions are more common in #transgender #men. Treatments, including #hormonetherapy, may help alleviate symptoms of #mentalhealthissues, though not everyone wants these.

As a close friend or family member of a #transgender #man, there are some ways to support their transition and #mentalhealth. This can include holding space for them or offering support to find quality #mentalhealthcare.

Keep reading to learn more about #mentalhealth in #transgender #men, from common issues, the unique difficulties #transgender men may face, and how to help and support them.

#Mentalhealth in #transgender #men

#Genderaffirming environments can help support the #mentalhealth of a #transgender #man.

A study in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine notes the difference between markers of #mentalhealth in #cisgender people of college age and gender minority people. In this context, #gender minority means those who identify with a #gender other than they were assigned at birth.

In general, #gender minority people seem to have a significantly higher prevalence of #mentalhealth symptoms.

According to this study, #gender minority people are more than four times as likely to have at least one #mentalhealthproblem compared with their #cisgender counterparts.

Possible #mentalhealthdisorders include:

- #depression

- #anxiety

- #self-harm

- #eatingdisorders

- #suicidalthoughts or tendencies

A similar study in BMC Public HealthTrusted Source also found that #transgender people were more likely to experience reduced life satisfaction and increased signs of #loneliness.

There are a number of reasons why this may be the case.

For more research-backed information and resources for men’s #health, please visit our dedicated hub.

Unique challenges

There are many contributing factors why #transgender #men and #transgender people may face more #mentalhealthconditions than other groups.

Overall, #transgender people may have increased stressors throughout their lives than their #cisgender peers when it comes to #sexualorientation and #genderidentity.

These stressors may include:

- rejection from family

- rejection by loved ones

- low #self-esteem

- poor coping skills

- body image issues

- poor sexual satisfaction

- avoidant #behaviors

The effect of these stressors throughout life may contribute to lower #mentalhealth.

#Loneliness may also play a role in #mentalhealthissues.

A study in the Journal of Clinical MedicineTrusted Source notes that social #loneliness was the main predictor of poor #mentalhealth in #transgender people.

In #transgender #men, specifically, romantic #loneliness appears to be the strongest factor. The study associated higher levels of #loneliness with lower levels of #mentalhealth.

As #loneliness may be more likely in #transgender people, its effects may manifest as poor #mentalhealth.

Societal expectations may also play a role. Social attitudes to gender expression can vary greatly from one place to the next.

Because of this, #transgender men may face discrimination throughout their lives. They may experience:

- possible violence

- personal prejudices

- social #stigma

These factors can influence the negative #mentalhealth aspects that #transgender people sometimes experience.

The #stigma surrounding both #mentalhealth and #gender minority identities may also keep people from reaching out or seeking help.

This silence itself may reduce the access a person has to support and may promote a cycle of needing help, feeling bad for needing help, and feeling even worse because of this trap.

Leaving these issues untreated may lead to worsened #mentalhealth and, in extreme cases, to deep #depression or #suicide.

#Suicideprevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of #self-harm, #suicide, or hurting another person:

- Ask the tough question: “Are you considering #suicide?”

- Listen to the person without judgment.

- Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis #counselor.

- Stay with the person until professional help arrives.

- Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of #suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The #988SuicideandCrisisLifeline is available 24 hours a day at #988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then #988.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

#Mentalhealth effects in #transgender #men

#Mentalhealthissues may affect #transgender #men differently than their #cisgender peers, especially if the person does not have access to #genderaffirming treatments.

Treatments that affirm #genderidentity may help ease symptoms, while treatments that deny someone’s identity may not.

#Mentalhealthissues may also affect #transgender #men differently than #cisgender people if they do not have access to a proper support system.

Whether from their peer group, family, or general population, acceptance of a person’s #genderidentity may be a big step toward improving their #mentalhealth.

#Drugs, #hormones, and #mentalhealth

#Genderaffirminghormonetherapy (#GAHT) involves giving a person with #genderdysphoria safe doses of hormones to help them transition to their true #genderidentity.

A review in Current Psychiatry ReportsTrusted Source notes that overall, GAHT has positive psychological impacts on both #adolescents and #adults.

GAHT reduces symptoms of #mentalhealthissues, such as #anxiety and #depression, reduces markers of social #stress, and improves quality of life and #self-esteem.

Hormone therapy is often an integral part of alleviating #genderdysphoria and may be key to treating underlying #mentalhealthissues.

It is important to note that while many #transgender people choose GAHT to help affirm their #genderidentity, not all #transgender people will opt for or even desire this treatment.

How to support people during transition

As a friend or family member of a #transgender #man, it may be difficult to imagine what they are going through during transition. A cisgender person may never completely understand the process or difficulty a #transgender person faces during these times.

Crucially, friends and family members of a #transgender #man can aim to be supportive.

Creating a #genderaffirming environment in a familial or social setting may help ease #genderdysphoria. It may also make it easier to facilitate treatment for underlying #mentalhealthconditions.

As part of this supportive role, it may help to:

- become educated about #transgender issues and solutions

- use the person’s favored pronouns and name

- keep the lines of communication open

- listen without being judgemental

- avoid making assumptions about someone’s sexual preferences, #gender roles, or desire for treatment

- advocate for #transgenderrights

It can take time to adjust to a person’s identity as they transition, and the change may produce reactions, judgments, or confusion.

#Mentalhealthprofessionals and support groups may offer tools and resources, not just for the #transgender person undergoing the transition, but for those close to them, as well.

Treatment

As the National LGBT Health Education Center note, the #mentalillness and #mentalhealth of a #transgender person are entirely separate from the fact that they are #transgender. Proper treatment will reflect this.

#Genderdysphoria, or the feeling or #stress of a person not having the same #genderidentity as the sex they were assigned at birth, is a #mentalhealthdisorder, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of #MentalHealthDisorders (DSM-5).

While many #transgender people may struggle with #genderdysphoria, and seek treatment for it, having a #transgender identity is not the same thing. It is not in the DSM-5, as it is not a form of psychopathy.

For most people, affirming their #genderidentity through gender-affirming health practices and treatments can treat their feelings of #genderdysphoria.

Some people will need hormone therapy and surgery to fully alleviate their #genderdysphoria, while others may not need either.

In many cases treating #genderdysphoria may reduce signs of #mentalhealthissues, such as #depression and #anxiety.

Properly treating #genderdysphoria can reduce the stressors on a #transgender person and help them focus on any underlying issues.

While focusing on #gender-affirming treatments, #mentalhealthspecialists can also diagnose and treat any other underlying #mentalhealthissues, such as #depression, #anxiety, or #eatingdisorders.

Treatment for individual #mentalhealthissues can vary greatly. Therapies may include a combination of prescription medications and various forms of psychotherapy.

It is essential that these treatments also integrate gender-affirming environments and therapies that support favorable outcomes in #transgender people.

Summary

#Transgender #men face unique #mentalhealthissues, and working towards a solution is a delicate process.

Some drugs and hormone therapy may alleviate stressful symptoms, though not every #transgender #man will choose these options.

It is important to support someone through their transition and as they seek #mentalhealthcare when they need it.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=10295

Men’s #mentalhealth is an important yet often overlooked health concern.

Both #men and #women experience #mentalhealth difficulties. However, there are some notable differences between the issues affecting them and the factors that influence those issues.

Keep reading to learn more about the most common issues and conditions affecting men’s #mentalhealth, including potential treatments and ways to help others experiencing #mentalhealthproblems.

How #mentalhealthissues affect #men differently

Seeking help is a crucial first step in recovering from any #mentalhealthcondition.

#Mentalhealthissues affect #men and #women differently in the following ways:

Differences in condition prevalence and #suicide rates

#Women are more likelyTrusted Source to experience #mentalhealthconditions than #men. They are also more likelyTrusted Source to attempt #suicide.

However, #men are more than 3.5 times more likely to die from #suicide than #women. This may be because they tend to choose more lethal weapons, such as firearms.

Different influencing factors

Men’s issues can develop from different causes and triggers than those that affect women.

For example, men’s issues often stem from societal expectations and traditional gender roles, which may lead #men to think that they must:

- be the breadwinners in the family

- display traditional “masculine” traits, such as strength and control

- rely on oneself and not seek help from others

- not speak openly about their emotions

Holding on to these traditional beliefs can negatively impact men’s #mentalhealth and keep them from accessing support and treatment.

Differences in seeking help

#Men are far less likelyTrusted Source than #women to seek treatment for issues such as #depression, #substanceabuse, and stressful life events. According to #MentalHealth America, this is due to:

- social “norms”

- a reluctance to talk

- downplaying their symptoms

A National Health Interview Survey reports that just 1 in 3 #men took medication for daily feelings of #depression or #anxiety, while just 1 in 4 spoke to a #mentalhealthprofessional.

For more research-backed information and resources for men’s health, please visit our dedicated hub.

Warning signs

The signs and symptomsTrusted Source of a #mentalhealthcondition will depend on the type, but there are some symptoms that people can look out for. These include:

- aggressiveness, anger, and irritability

- changes in mood or energy levels

- changes in appetite or sleeping habits

- difficulty focusing

- feeling restless or “on edge”

- a high consumption of #alcohol

- inappropriate use of #drugs

- participating in risky activities

- feeling sad, hopeless, numb, or emotionally “flat”

- having aches, pains, or other physical symptoms without a clear cause

- obsessive or compulsive thoughts or #behaviors

- thinking or acting in a way that causes concern to others or has a negative impact on work, social, or family life

- thinking about or attempting #suicide

If a person notices these symptoms in themselves or if a loved one spots them, it is a good idea to seek medical help.

Treating #mentalhealthissues in the early stages can often prevent the symptoms from becoming more severe and lower the risk of complications.

Who is at risk?

Several factors increase the risk of #mentalhealthconditions and #suicide among #men. The following groups may be more at risk than others:

- Older, #white #men: #White #men aged 85 years and older are most at risk of #suicide. More #men in this demographic die by #suicide every year than in any other group by age, sex, or race.

- #Men who have experienced trauma: Traumatic events, such as engaging in combat or being the victim of an assault, increase the risk of experiencing #posttraumaticstressdisorder (#PTSD).

- #Men experiencing employment issues: Working in poor conditions or having a high workload can increase the risk of #mentalhealthissues. Unemployment and retirement also increase the riskTrusted Source of #depression and #suicide.

- #Men who have had a marital breakdown: #Depression is more common, and more severe, among #men who are divorced. One studyTrusted Source suggests that being single is a significant #suicide trigger among #men.

- #Men with legal or financial concerns: Having legal or financial worries can trigger the development of #mentalhealthproblems and increase the risk of #suicide.

- #Men who misuse #alcohol or #drugs: #Men are more likelyTrusted Source to engage in illicit #druguse and #alcohol use, which can trigger or exacerbate #mentalhealthconditions.

- #Men with a family history of #mentalhealthissues: Many #psychiatric conditions — including #bipolardisorder, #depression, and #schizophrenia — run in familiesTrusted Source, suggesting a genetic component.

- #Men dealing with other life challenges: Other risk factorsTrusted Source for #mentalhealthproblems and #suicide include physical illness or discomfort, conflict with family or friends, and the illness or death of a family member.

Common #mentalhealthconditions in #men

Some of the most prevalent #mentalhealthconditions among #men are:

#Depression

#Depression is characterized by a persistent low mood that interferes with everyday functioning. Worldwide, it is one of the most common #mentalhealthconditions.

#Depression is almost twice as commonTrusted Source in #women as #men. However, #men are far less likelyTrusted Source than #women to seek treatment for it.

Learn about some of the hidden symptoms of #depression here.

Learn about the typical symptoms of #depression in #men here.

#Anxietydisorders

#Anxietydisorders are characterized by intense and uncontrollable feelings of fear and worry.

The most common type, generalized #anxietydisorder (GAD), often co-occurs with #depression. Although #women are twice as likely to experience GAD, #men are less likely to seek treatment for it.

Other types of #anxietydisorders, such as #socialanxietydisorder and #obsessivecompulsivedisorder (#OCD), are equally common among #men and #women.

#Socialanxietydisorder causes intense #anxiety and fear in social situations, while #OCD causes the continuous repetition of specific thoughts (obsessions) or a compulsive need to perform specific routines repeatedly (compulsions).

#Schizophrenia

#Schizophrenia is a severe #mentalhealthcondition wherein people do not interpret reality as it is. They experience hallucinations, delusions, and other forms of disordered thinking.

#Schizophrenia can have a significant impact on quality of life and relationships. Of those who receive a #schizophrenia diagnosis by the age of 30 years, 90% are #men.

#PTSD

#PTSD is a condition characterized by symptoms of reliving a traumatic experience, avoidance, and hyperarousal.

Research indicates that around 60% of #men experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime, while 50% of #women do. Types of #trauma differ, with #men being more likely to experience:

- accidents

- assaults

- combat

- natural disasters

- witnessing a death or injury

#Women are more likely to experience #sexualassault or #child #sexualabuse.

Although #men have a higher risk of traumatic events, #women are more likely to develop #PTSD.

#Substanceabuse

Across most age groups, #men have higher ratesTrusted Source of use or dependence on illegal #drugs and #alcohol than #women. They are also more likely to require an emergency department visit and die from overdose.

According to the National Institute on #Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismTrusted Source, 68,000 #men die annually from #alcohol-related causes, compared with 27,000 #women.

Learn more about addiction here.

Treatment

Although many #men are reluctant to seek and continueTrusted Source treatment for #mentalhealthissues, it is a vital step in recovery. With effective treatment, people can learn to manage their symptoms and begin to feel better.

Some treatment options include:

Psychotherapy

Therapy can help people work through issues that have triggered #mentalhealthconditions. It can also help individuals manage their symptoms, change their negative thoughts and unhelpful #behaviors, and learn new coping skills.

There are many different styles of therapy. In order for it to be effective, it is essential that people find the right #therapist and type of therapy for them.

Medication

A #doctor may prescribe medication to treat various #mentalhealthconditions or symptoms associated with those illnesses.

For example, they may prescribe:

- antidepressants

- antianxiety medications

- antipsychotic #drugs

- sleep aids

Typically, #doctors will recommend that people use medications in combination with psychotherapy.

Lifestyle changes

Making positive lifestyle changes can make a significant contribution to #mental #well-being.

For example, it is important to:

- Eat a balanced diet.

- Get enough sleep.

- Exercise on most days.

- Manage #stress through meditation or yoga, or in other ways.

- Limit or avoid the use of #alcohol and #drugs.

Learn more about some natural ways to ease conditions such as #anxiety here.

Peer support

Attending a support group or group counseling can be very helpful for those with a #mentalhealthcondition.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent #mentalhealthconditions. However, the following steps may reduce the risk of developing one:

- Communicate with family and friends, especially during stressful periods.

- Seek treatment promptly if any symptoms of poor #mentalhealth develop.

- Continue with maintenance treatment to prevent relapses of #depression or other #mentalhealthconditions.

- Learn to manage #stress through meditation, mindfulness, creative outlets, or other methods.

- Practice positive lifestyle choices, such as eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising.

- See a #therapist for issues such as low #self-esteem or #childhood #trauma, which could trigger #mentalhealthproblems later in life.

How to help

There are several things a person can do to help a loved one with #mentalhealthissues. For example:

- Look for changes in the person’s #behavior and mood. These may indicate the development of a #mentalhealthissue.

- Talk to the person and ask them how they are feeling. This is especially important if they have just experienced an upsetting event, such as divorce, bereavement, or retirement.

- Encourage them to talk to their #doctor or a #mentalhealthprofessional.

- Offer to look up treatment providers, make an appointment for them, or attend the treatment with them.

- Check in with them regularly to see how they are.

- If someone is at risk of #suicide, do not leave them alone. Call 911 and wait with them until help arrives.

Having the support of loved ones can have a significant impact on a person’s recovery. Some researchTrusted Source even suggests that some people who have #suicidalthoughts but do not act on them choose not to do so because of the support of their friends and family.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

http://www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Helpful organizations

Organizations that may be helpful for #men with #mentalhealthconditions include:

- the #NationalAllianceonMentalIllness, which is available at 800-950-#NAMI (800-950-6264) or by free text for those in crisis (text “#NAMI” to 741-741)

- the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline, which is available 24/7 at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255)

- the Face It Foundation, which provides support groups, peer support, and other resources for #men with #depression

- HeadsUpGuys, which is an organization that provides strategies to manage or prevent #depression in #men

- the Movember Foundation, which is a charity that focuses on issues that affect men’s physical and #mentalhealth

#Suicideprevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of #self-harm, #suicide, or hurting another person:

- Ask the tough question: “Are you considering #suicide?”

- Listen to the person without judgment.

- Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis #counselor.

- Stay with the person until professional help arrives.

- Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of #suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The #988SuicideandCrisisLifeline is available 24 hours a day at #988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then #988.

Click here for more links and local resources.

Summary

Men’s #mentalhealthissues differ from women’s in many ways, yet they are just as important. One concerning aspect is that #men are more reluctant to seek treatment for issues they face. The risk of #suicide is also much higher among #men.

However, seeking and continuing treatment can have a significant positive impact on the lives of #men who experience #mentalhealth difficulties. Seeking support from #healthprofessionals and loved ones can ease the symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of #suicide.

Many organizations offer support to those experiencing #mentalhealthchallenges, and many focus solely on providing information and help to #men.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/2022/11/jamesdonaldson-on-mentalhealth-mens-mentalhealth-what-you-need-to-know/

Men’s #mentalhealth is an important yet often overlooked health concern.

Both #men and #women experience #mentalhealth difficulties. However, there are some notable differences between the issues affecting them and the factors that influence those issues.

Keep reading to learn more about the most common issues and conditions affecting men’s #mentalhealth, including potential treatments and ways to help others experiencing #mentalhealthproblems.

How #mentalhealthissues affect #men differently

Seeking help is a crucial first step in recovering from any #mentalhealthcondition.

#Mentalhealthissues affect #men and #women differently in the following ways:

Differences in condition prevalence and #suicide rates

#Women are more likelyTrusted Source to experience #mentalhealthconditions than #men. They are also more likelyTrusted Source to attempt #suicide.

However, #men are more than 3.5 times more likely to die from #suicide than #women. This may be because they tend to choose more lethal weapons, such as firearms.

Different influencing factors

Men’s issues can develop from different causes and triggers than those that affect women.

For example, men’s issues often stem from societal expectations and traditional gender roles, which may lead #men to think that they must:

- be the breadwinners in the family

- display traditional “masculine” traits, such as strength and control

- rely on oneself and not seek help from others

- not speak openly about their emotions

Holding on to these traditional beliefs can negatively impact men’s #mentalhealth and keep them from accessing support and treatment.

Differences in seeking help

#Men are far less likelyTrusted Source than #women to seek treatment for issues such as #depression, #substanceabuse, and stressful life events. According to #MentalHealth America, this is due to:

- social “norms”

- a reluctance to talk

- downplaying their symptoms

A National Health Interview Survey reports that just 1 in 3 #men took medication for daily feelings of #depression or #anxiety, while just 1 in 4 spoke to a #mentalhealthprofessional.

For more research-backed information and resources for men’s health, please visit our dedicated hub.

Warning signs

The signs and symptomsTrusted Source of a #mentalhealthcondition will depend on the type, but there are some symptoms that people can look out for. These include:

- aggressiveness, anger, and irritability

- changes in mood or energy levels

- changes in appetite or sleeping habits

- difficulty focusing

- feeling restless or “on edge”

- a high consumption of #alcohol

- inappropriate use of #drugs

- participating in risky activities

- feeling sad, hopeless, numb, or emotionally “flat”

- having aches, pains, or other physical symptoms without a clear cause

- obsessive or compulsive thoughts or #behaviors

- thinking or acting in a way that causes concern to others or has a negative impact on work, social, or family life

- thinking about or attempting #suicide

If a person notices these symptoms in themselves or if a loved one spots them, it is a good idea to seek medical help.

Treating #mentalhealthissues in the early stages can often prevent the symptoms from becoming more severe and lower the risk of complications.

Who is at risk?

Several factors increase the risk of #mentalhealthconditions and #suicide among #men. The following groups may be more at risk than others:

- Older, #white #men: #White #men aged 85 years and older are most at risk of #suicide. More #men in this demographic die by #suicide every year than in any other group by age, sex, or race.

- #Men who have experienced trauma: Traumatic events, such as engaging in combat or being the victim of an assault, increase the risk of experiencing #posttraumaticstressdisorder (#PTSD).

- #Men experiencing employment issues: Working in poor conditions or having a high workload can increase the risk of #mentalhealthissues. Unemployment and retirement also increase the riskTrusted Source of #depression and #suicide.

- #Men who have had a marital breakdown: #Depression is more common, and more severe, among #men who are divorced. One studyTrusted Source suggests that being single is a significant #suicide trigger among #men.

- #Men with legal or financial concerns: Having legal or financial worries can trigger the development of #mentalhealthproblems and increase the risk of #suicide.

- #Men who misuse #alcohol or #drugs: #Men are more likelyTrusted Source to engage in illicit #druguse and #alcohol use, which can trigger or exacerbate #mentalhealthconditions.

- #Men with a family history of #mentalhealthissues: Many #psychiatric conditions — including #bipolardisorder, #depression, and #schizophrenia — run in familiesTrusted Source, suggesting a genetic component.

- #Men dealing with other life challenges: Other risk factorsTrusted Source for #mentalhealthproblems and #suicide include physical illness or discomfort, conflict with family or friends, and the illness or death of a family member.

Common #mentalhealthconditions in #men

Some of the most prevalent #mentalhealthconditions among #men are:

#Depression

#Depression is characterized by a persistent low mood that interferes with everyday functioning. Worldwide, it is one of the most common #mentalhealthconditions.

#Depression is almost twice as commonTrusted Source in #women as #men. However, #men are far less likelyTrusted Source than #women to seek treatment for it.

Learn about some of the hidden symptoms of #depression here.

Learn about the typical symptoms of #depression in #men here.

#Anxietydisorders

#Anxietydisorders are characterized by intense and uncontrollable feelings of fear and worry.

The most common type, generalized #anxietydisorder (GAD), often co-occurs with #depression. Although #women are twice as likely to experience GAD, #men are less likely to seek treatment for it.

Other types of #anxietydisorders, such as #socialanxietydisorder and #obsessivecompulsivedisorder (#OCD), are equally common among #men and #women.

#Socialanxietydisorder causes intense #anxiety and fear in social situations, while #OCD causes the continuous repetition of specific thoughts (obsessions) or a compulsive need to perform specific routines repeatedly (compulsions).

#Schizophrenia

#Schizophrenia is a severe #mentalhealthcondition wherein people do not interpret reality as it is. They experience hallucinations, delusions, and other forms of disordered thinking.

#Schizophrenia can have a significant impact on quality of life and relationships. Of those who receive a #schizophrenia diagnosis by the age of 30 years, 90% are #men.

#PTSD

#PTSD is a condition characterized by symptoms of reliving a traumatic experience, avoidance, and hyperarousal.

Research indicates that around 60% of #men experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime, while 50% of #women do. Types of #trauma differ, with #men being more likely to experience:

- accidents

- assaults

- combat

- natural disasters

- witnessing a death or injury

#Women are more likely to experience #sexualassault or #child #sexualabuse.

Although #men have a higher risk of traumatic events, #women are more likely to develop #PTSD.

#Substanceabuse

Across most age groups, #men have higher ratesTrusted Source of use or dependence on illegal #drugs and #alcohol than #women. They are also more likely to require an emergency department visit and die from overdose.

According to the National Institute on #Alcohol Abuse and AlcoholismTrusted Source, 68,000 #men die annually from #alcohol-related causes, compared with 27,000 #women.

Learn more about addiction here.

Treatment

Although many #men are reluctant to seek and continueTrusted Source treatment for #mentalhealthissues, it is a vital step in recovery. With effective treatment, people can learn to manage their symptoms and begin to feel better.

Some treatment options include:

Psychotherapy

Therapy can help people work through issues that have triggered #mentalhealthconditions. It can also help individuals manage their symptoms, change their negative thoughts and unhelpful #behaviors, and learn new coping skills.

There are many different styles of therapy. In order for it to be effective, it is essential that people find the right #therapist and type of therapy for them.

Medication

A #doctor may prescribe medication to treat various #mentalhealthconditions or symptoms associated with those illnesses.

For example, they may prescribe:

- antidepressants

- antianxiety medications

- antipsychotic #drugs

- sleep aids

Typically, #doctors will recommend that people use medications in combination with psychotherapy.

Lifestyle changes

Making positive lifestyle changes can make a significant contribution to #mental #well-being.

For example, it is important to:

- Eat a balanced diet.

- Get enough sleep.

- Exercise on most days.

- Manage #stress through meditation or yoga, or in other ways.

- Limit or avoid the use of #alcohol and #drugs.

Learn more about some natural ways to ease conditions such as #anxiety here.

Peer support

Attending a support group or group counseling can be very helpful for those with a #mentalhealthcondition.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent #mentalhealthconditions. However, the following steps may reduce the risk of developing one:

- Communicate with family and friends, especially during stressful periods.

- Seek treatment promptly if any symptoms of poor #mentalhealth develop.

- Continue with maintenance treatment to prevent relapses of #depression or other #mentalhealthconditions.

- Learn to manage #stress through meditation, mindfulness, creative outlets, or other methods.

- Practice positive lifestyle choices, such as eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising.

- See a #therapist for issues such as low #self-esteem or #childhood #trauma, which could trigger #mentalhealthproblems later in life.

How to help

There are several things a person can do to help a loved one with #mentalhealthissues. For example:

- Look for changes in the person’s #behavior and mood. These may indicate the development of a #mentalhealthissue.

- Talk to the person and ask them how they are feeling. This is especially important if they have just experienced an upsetting event, such as divorce, bereavement, or retirement.

- Encourage them to talk to their #doctor or a #mentalhealthprofessional.

- Offer to look up treatment providers, make an appointment for them, or attend the treatment with them.

- Check in with them regularly to see how they are.

- If someone is at risk of #suicide, do not leave them alone. Call 911 and wait with them until help arrives.

Having the support of loved ones can have a significant impact on a person’s recovery. Some researchTrusted Source even suggests that some people who have #suicidalthoughts but do not act on them choose not to do so because of the support of their friends and family.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleOrder your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

http://www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

Helpful organizations

Organizations that may be helpful for #men with #mentalhealthconditions include:

- the #NationalAllianceonMentalIllness, which is available at 800-950-#NAMI (800-950-6264) or by free text for those in crisis (text “#NAMI” to 741-741)

- the #NationalSuicidePreventionLifeline, which is available 24/7 at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255)

- the Face It Foundation, which provides support groups, peer support, and other resources for #men with #depression

- HeadsUpGuys, which is an organization that provides strategies to manage or prevent #depression in #men

- the Movember Foundation, which is a charity that focuses on issues that affect men’s physical and #mentalhealth

#Suicideprevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of #self-harm, #suicide, or hurting another person:

- Ask the tough question: “Are you considering #suicide?”

- Listen to the person without judgment.

- Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis #counselor.

- Stay with the person until professional help arrives.

- Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of #suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The #988SuicideandCrisisLifeline is available 24 hours a day at #988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then #988.

Click here for more links and local resources.

Summary

Men’s #mentalhealthissues differ from women’s in many ways, yet they are just as important. One concerning aspect is that #men are more reluctant to seek treatment for issues they face. The risk of #suicide is also much higher among #men.

However, seeking and continuing treatment can have a significant positive impact on the lives of #men who experience #mentalhealth difficulties. Seeking support from #healthprofessionals and loved ones can ease the symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of #suicide.

Many organizations offer support to those experiencing #mentalhealthchallenges, and many focus solely on providing information and help to #men.
https://standingabovethecrowd.com/?p=10290