Trust urges men to ‘open up’ to mental health problems

The South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust is urging men to seek help for mental health problems, during National Men’s Health Week 2006, (June 12th-18th).

A new report launched to mark National Men’s Health Week shows that although mental illness is common among UK men, one fifth are suffering in silence and don’t turn to anyone for help.

The report – by the Men’s Health Forum also found that: 46% of men suffer from moderate or extreme stress in a normal week. 51% say they feel down, stressed, depressed or anxious at least once a month 32% say stress, anxiety or depression causes them to drink more alcohol. 30% of men say they’d be too embarrassed or ashamed to ask for professional help.

Judith Young, chief executive for the South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust says, "We’re concerned that so many men may not be seeking help for mental health problems because they are embarrassed or ashamed to ask for help. One in four of us will experience a mental health problem in the course of a year and the stigma surrounding mental illness can have a damaging effect. At South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust we are committed to challenging this stigma so people will come forward and get the help they need."

National Men’s health week is in its fifth year with this year’s focus on the issue of men and mental wellbeing.

Some examples of mental health issues particular to men include: • Suicide is the most common cause of death in young men under 35. Overall, 75 per cent of suicides in the UK are by men • Young African and Caribbean men (especially second generation) are much more likely to receive a diagnosis of schizophrenia, are more likely to be detained under the Mental Health Act • Studies suggest that depression occurs as often in men as in women yet doctors are less likely to diagnose men with depression than women

Men who feel they may need to speak to someone about their mental health should contact their GP who will refer them on to specialist mental health services if necessary.