UAE men walk along the empty seafront boulevard of the normally crowded Jumeirah Beach Residence in Dubai Gulf Emirates on March 12, 2020 (File photo: AFP)
Mental health experts in the United Arab Emirates dispel myths about men’s health, saying men also suffer from eating disorders such as postpartum depression and anorexia, which are traditionally female. moving to try
Ahead of this year’s Men’s Health Week, which runs from June 12-18, Dr Shweta Misra, a clinical psychologist at the Aspris Wellbeing Center in Dubai, said that men are just as susceptible to mental illness as women, but: Some myths persist,” he said. In addition to the stigma that many men still associate with seeking help, they may be deterred from seeking help. “
common theory
Common myths include that only women suffer from postpartum depression. She said 8 to 10 percent of all her fathers experience postpartum depression. The challenges new mothers face, such as sleep deprivation and coping with new responsibilities, are also experienced by new fathers.
Also, many believe that certain mental health disorders, such as eating disorders, only affect women.
“Twenty-five percent of people with anorexia nervosa are men, and men are at higher risk of death because many people assume they don’t suffer from an eating disorder, and men are more likely to be diagnosed later. ‘ pointed out Dr. Misra.
Another popular myth, the doctor said, is that marriage cures men’s mental illness.
“Although this idea is widespread among some cultures, it is likely that the effects of such marriages are actually negative for both partners’ mental health,” she said. “Studies show that men are more likely than women to be ashamed or blamed for mental illness and are much more likely to manage their illness through self-care methods such as self-medication.”
“It is striking that even in the 21st century, gender roles still have a negative impact on how men approach mental health. This is what keeps many from opening up emotionally, which is incompatible with therapy.”
The most common mental health conditions in men, he said, are anxiety disorders, mood disorders, especially depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.
Societal expectations and traditional male ideals may also contribute to rising rates of substance abuse among men. Those who have military experience or who have been exposed to traumatic events are also at increased risk of developing PTSD.
Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa can still affect men, despite being less prevalent than women.
‘A change in attitude’
However, Abu Dhabi clinical psychologist Nesma Lukman says there has definitely been a change in men’s attitudes towards mental health over the last few years, although there is still an obvious reluctance and reluctance to seek help among male patients. I believe that
“We are noticing more men taking the step of embracing mental health and trying therapy for the first time.”
“This is a positive trend and suggests that more men are recognizing the importance of taking care of their own mental health and seeking help when needed.”
Ozan Akbas, a clinical psychologist at the Aspris Wellbeing Center in Dubai, echoed this, saying, “More male patients are coming forward for help than they were five years ago. “I strongly believe that , as a result of the promotion of more diverse and positive health care,” they are role models of masculinity, making them excellent advocates and helping more people who may be suffering from mental health disorders. trying to reach out to a man This, in addition to encouraging mental health and strengthening education in businesses and schools across the UAE, is all having a positive impact. “
‘Mental health symptoms differ from men’
Mental illness symptoms are much different in men than in women and can be much more difficult to recognize.
Dr. Misra says: Depressed men may try to hide their symptoms. As a result, they can become angry and aggressive. Depressed women, on the other hand, can be sadder and more introverted. “
“Similarly, women with post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSS), for example, can be irritable and anxious, while men can become irritable and aggressive, abusing different substances as coping mechanisms. Men with eating disorders may be overly calorie-conscious or over-exercise in the gym Men with body image problems may be more likely to lose weight in their muscles, skin , sometimes obsessed with the genitals, nose, and hair.”
Akbas emphasizes that men are more likely to express their emotions through a subconscious process known as somatization. “If you are unable to express your emotions well in words, your emotions may manifest in the form of headaches, pain in various parts of the body, or, in extreme cases, loss of sensation or function for a limited period of time in various bodies. It may be expressed through.” Parts.
“However, it is important to remember that individual experiences and symptoms are not absolute and can vary greatly. Considering needs is essential.”
Lukman believes that while progress has been made in stigmatizing mental illness among men, much more needs to be done. “Stigma prevents men from seeking help, and this stigma is linked to societal expectations of masculinity, fear of judgment and discrimination, lack of awareness and education, and limited emotional vocabulary and coping mechanisms. It continues because of it.
“To address mental health stigma, we must continue to raise awareness, challenge gender norms, create a supportive environment, and provide accessible mental health resources. By emphasizing that asking for help is a sign of strength, we can reduce stigma and increase men’s willingness to seek help.”
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