Movember, a global charity campaign initiated by an Australian organization in Melbourne, is held every November to raise awareness of men's health issues. Movember originates from the combination of November and moustache. It aims to raise public awareness of male health issues such as prostate cancer and testicular cancer, as well as depression, by calling on men to grow a moustache or a beard for the whole month. Male mental health is one of the main areas of concern. It's hoped that the public will support Movember with their actions.
Men’s Mental Health
Due to factors like COVID-19 and the economic recession, many surveys have found the stress level, depression, and anxiety of Hong Kong people are getting worse. Suicide has become an even more severe issue. There is no gender difference in emotional problems, but men’s mental health issues are neglected more often. The Psychiatric Specialist, Dr Tsang Wai-Kiu, has noted that men are facing gender stereotypes and expectations from society. For example, men are expected to be strong. It is often difficult for men to admit that they are facing huge problems and seek help from others, not until the moment when they experience emotional meltdowns. Some even do so when their family members realize they have emotional issues. Some men would resort to other methods to escape emotional problems, such as abusing drugs. He suggested that the general public should not only maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise habits but also observe the changes in their own emotions. If you find unusual emotions in yourself or your family members, you should pay more attention to the situation and consider whether you need to seek professional assistance.
Signs and Symptoms of Mental Stress
Besides the following symptoms, our immune system will be weakened by overwhelming or continuous stress, making us susceptible to a wide range of diseases, including heart disease and stomach ulcers.
- headache, neck and shoulder pain
- poor appetite, stomachache, indigestion
- insomnia
- low sex drive
- concentration difficulties
- feeling frustrated and depressed
- irritable or angry
- loss of interest in everything
Causes of Stress
Different events in daily life, large or small, can bring stress and affect emotional health. The leading causes of stress in men include difficulties at work or unemployment, financial problems, poor health conditions such as illness, unpleasant living environments (i.e. compact space), excessive alcohol or smoking, and drug abuse.
Practical Tips on Stress Management for Men
Under the traditional concept that men should never show emotional vulnerability in front of others, many men are reluctant to seek assistance when encountering problems. Experts from the Department of Health suggested they may express their feelings to unknown counsellors through the telephone hotline services if they are not used to face-to-face conversations or find it difficult to confide in their friends or family. Many men have been able to release their emotions and find solutions to their problems through this method. Also, you may refer to the following tips on pressure management:
- Do not isolate yourself when you are feeling low. Talk to your partner or a reliable friend, and express your thoughts and concerns about your issues. You can see the problems from different perspectives by listening to others' views
- Exercise regularly, stay social and sleep well
- Relax yourself through meditation, yoga or massage
- Be as hilarious as you can when you are stressed
- Deal with the causes of stress positively, such as prioritizing your work and doing a proper scheduling
- Eat fresh food, such as vegetables and fruits and maintain a balanced diet
- Avoid unnecessary disputes and conflicts in life
- Understand your limits without forcing yourself to go beyond your capabilities
When under heavy stress and emotional distress, men are prone to escape. If they don't cope with the problems or receive treatments promptly, they may tend to use drugs or alcohol as a relief, resulting in severe consequences. Several foreign studies have pointed out that although more females think of committing suicide, the male suicide rate is still higher than that of females, and the situation deserves public attention.
Emotional disorders such as depression and anxiety are as common as colds and must be addressed. It is essential for us to remain mindful of our mental health to avoid it causing physical and psychological harm. Cigna VHIS Flexi Plan(Superior) provides psychiatric treatment coverage during hospitalization and a lifetime benefit limit up to HK$ 30,000,000. Please click here for more details.