Do not underestimate the importance of mental healthcare for men

While Men’s Health Month raises awareness of men’s physical health, it also highlights the significance of mental healthcare for men. Mental health is just as vital as physical health since untreated mental health issues may lead to other problems, like substance misuse.
The stigma
It may be difficult for men to discuss their mental health since doing so frequently necessitates revea- ling more vulnerable states of emotion. Men are more likely to avoid getting help for mental health issues because they may see doing so as a sign of weakness. Due to the stigma associated with mental health, men may self-medicate and dull symptoms with substances.
Among the primary indicators of a mental health condition are:
* Struggling with concentration
* Having suicidal thoughts
* Displaying mood swings or changes in behaviour
* Obsessional thinking
* Feeling sad or hopeless
* Experiencing extreme anxiety or stress
* Misusing alcohol and other substances.
Among the most prevalent mental disorders among men are:
* Anxiety
* Depression
* Schizophrenia
* Eating disorders.
To receive treatment for a mental health condition, it is necessary to acknowledge the possibility of a problem.
Men are more likely to develop substance use disorder (SUD) in the absence of acceptance. There is a strong correlation between substance use disorders and mental health conditions. Many times, misuse of substances triggers an underlying mental health condition.
Sanca (SA National Council on Alcoholism) Sasolburg offers an outpatient treatment service for substance use disorders in Parys at Thabang Clinic, Tumahole, every Tuesday from 9:00 to 12:00.
They can assist with an assessment to determine the severity of a substance use disorder. Sanca can also assist with aftercare services for persons who have attended an inpatient treatment service.
Contact Sanca on 016 976 2051 or send an email to sanca.sasolburg@gmail.com.