This Father's Day: When Men Smile Through Mental Illness
As we celebrate Father's Day, it's crucial to understand that one of the best gifts we can give fathers is a genuine investment in their mental wellbeing.
Today, as we celebrate Father’s Day, we honor the sacrifice, strength and love of fathers worldwide. These unsung heroes play a pivotal role in our lives, serving not only as protectors but also as role models and guides. Their unwavering commitment shapes the character and future of their children, providing support and stability while teaching life’s crucial lessons.
However, it's crucial to remember that beneath the smiles and celebrations, many men are silently grappling with mental health issues. This reality is one of the reasons why June is designated as Men's Mental Health Awareness Month in the US. This month is dedicated to breaking down societal stigmas that often deter men from seeking help and fostering open discussions about mental health struggles. On this special day, let's highlight the mental health challenges that fathers face and underscore the importance of addressing them.
Men are frequently seen as pillars of strength, expected to stoically weather life's storms. However, the truth is that men are just as vulnerable to mental health issues as anyone else. Mental health is a vital component of overall well-being, but it often remains unaddressed, particularly among men. Despite increased awareness, mental health issues continue to be stigmatized, and gender norms can discourage men from seeking the help they need.
In the US, mental health statistics reveal a significant impact on men’s well-being. 8.5% of men experience daily feelings of depression or anxiety, yet less than half of them seek treatment. Over 6 million men suffer from depression, and more than 3 million are affected by panic disorder, agoraphobia, or other phobias. The global mental health landscape for men is equally concerning. On average, 37% of men across 115 countries reported feelings of depression, and 34% reported feelings of anxiety.
Suicide among men is a critical public health concern, with men making up a staggering 75-80% of all suicide deaths globally. This issue is particularly acute in countries like the UK, the US, and Canada. In the UK, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, resulting in nearly 12 deaths every day. The situation is even more severe in the US, where the suicide rates for men are four times those of women, leading to approximately 100 men tragically ending their own lives each day.
In Canada, the statistics are equally alarming, with men accounting for three-quarters of all suicide cases, translating to about eight lives lost daily. This distressing pattern is reflected worldwide, with countries such as Lesotho, South Korea, Lithuania, and Russia reporting some of the highest male suicide rates. These figures underscore the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support and preventive measures for men globally.
Over the past five years, racial disparities in suicide rates among American men have become evident. In 2021, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that American Indian or Alaska Native men had the highest age-adjusted suicide rate at 28.1 per 100,000, marking a significant increase of 26% from previous years. Black or African American men saw a 19.2% rise in suicide rates, while White men experienced a slight decrease.
In 2022, the US recorded 49,449 suicides, a 3% increase from the previous year, with a male suicide rate of 23.1 per 100,000. Among racial groups, American Indians and Alaskan Natives had the highest rate, followed by Whites. Significantly lower rates were observed among Black or African Americans and Asians and Pacific Islanders.
Mental illness among men in the US carries a significant economic burden, with the annual costs amounting to $282 billion. This figure includes expenses related to treatment, income loss, and the broader economic effects of reduced consumption and investment by affected individuals.
The global economy faces a similar impact, with mental disorders causing $1 trillion in lost productivity annually. This figure is projected to rise to $6 trillion by 2030, underscoring the economic implications of mental health issues.
The economic burden of suicide, particularly among men, is staggering. In the US, the annual costs associated with suicides and suicide attempts, including lifetime medical care and lost work, approach $70 billion. When broader financial factors like medical expenses, work loss, and the statistical value of life are considered, the total surpasses $500 billion. On a global scale, the financial repercussions of suicide run into the billions.
As we commemorate Father's Day, it's essential to acknowledge the unseen struggles many fathers endure and reaffirm our dedication to creating an environment where seeking mental health support is normalized. This day is not only about honoring fathers but also about elevating the discourse around their mental well-being, ensuring they understand that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
Advocating for mental health education and ensuring access to supportive services can foster a society where men are empowered to seek help and share their struggles openly. This Father's Day, let's champoin the mental health of all fathers, aiding them on their journey to healing and happiness. Ultimately, by elevating the mental health of men, we elevate entire communities.