Mental illness is very common. One in five (20%) Australians aged 16-85 experience a
mental illness in any year. Similarly, Depression has a high lifetime prevalence – one in seven Australians will experience depression in their lifetime.
Men are statistically more likely to attempt or commit suicide as a result of mental illness or depression. In 2010 men accounted for over three-quarters (76.9%) of deaths from suicide however, an estimated 72% of males don’t seek help for mental disorders [1].
Prahran Psychology has created a new male program known as Man Up – a program for the betterment of mental health in men around Australia.
Male mental health has become a serious issue in Australian’s society.
If you have a loved one who is need of support, the best steps are to speak to them about seeking help. Men typically want help, but a dialogue which allows men to speak about their mental health is not usually available. Use such initatives as “Are you OK” day to open up the dialogue, and reach out to the males in your life.