In 2024 the conversation around mental health in Australia is more important than ever, particularly when it comes to men’s mental health. While the stigma surrounding mental health issues has gradually decreased over the years, men continue to face unique challenges in seeking help and support. With suicide rates in men rising the significance of open conversations and leaning on your mates, or reaching out to your mates, is crucial.
Men’s mental health fact sheet from the AMHF
- 3 in 4 suicides are men
- 1 in 2 men will have a mental health disorder in their lifetime
- men not in the workforce have 4x the risk of depression
- separated men have 6x the risk of depression
- men who lack close friends have twice the risk of suicidal thoughts
- maintaining a healthy body can strengthen mental health
- suicide is the leading killer of men under 55 in Australia
- suicide kills 7 Australian men a day
It is critical to talk about the issues impacting so many men and look at what can be done to improve their mental health and wellbeing.
WHY CONVERSATIONS MATTER
Open and honest conversations play a pivotal role in improving men’s mental health in Australia:
Reducing Stigma: Conversations break down the stigma associated with mental health issues. When friends and family openly discuss their own experiences, it encourages others to seek help without feeling ashamed.
Awareness and Education: Conversations can help raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders. Men are more likely to recognise these issues in themselves and others when they have access to information.
Emotional and Physical Release: Talking about feelings and struggles can provide a release. Bottling up emotions can lead to increased stress and anxiety, while discussing them can be a form of catharsis. Utilise support in seeking out alternative treatments and tools from health professionals.
Massage Therapy & Mental Health
One of these said tools to support mental health is MASSAGE THERAPY.
Massage therapy has been shown to have numerous physical and mental health benefits for men. Here are some ways in which massage can positively impact mental well-being:
Stress Reduction: Regular massages can help reduce stress and anxiety. Relaxation provided during a massage session can promote a sense of calm and ease tension.
Improved Mood: Research indicates that massage therapy can improve mood and boost energy levels. It’s particularly helpful for people coping with conditions like depression and seasonal affective disorder.
Enhanced Sleep: Massage can contribute to better sleep quality. By relaxing muscles and promoting relaxation, it helps individuals fall asleep faster and enjoy more restful sleep.
Stress Hormone Reduction: Massage releases endorphins, which act as natural painkillers. Additionally, it can reduce the heart rate and impact the immune system, leading to overall well-being.
Physical Benefits: While massage primarily focuses on the body, its effects extend to mental health. For instance, aligning the body, improving posture, and reducing pain contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
Massage positively impact the HPA axis (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) and levels of neurohormones such as the “bonding” hormone oxytocin. Many of these brain structures and functions are similar to those targeted in other mental health interventions and can help with connection to family and friends.
If you feel massage therapy would be a treatment you would find helpful please book online here.
Learning to ask R U OK? can help save his life.
If you are worried someone is thinking about a loved one and aren’t sure what to do, call a helpline and ask for advice:
