Social Analysis

Men are seen as one of the most privileged people in the world we live in today. It seems as though it is easier to hate and blame a male because of their privilege. Society seems to believe that they have everything and everyone else around them simply does not. Something that is rarely heard is that too much privilege affects a man's mental health. Well you might be thinking, having all the privilege in the world can get you anything and everything. Too much privilege leads to expectations that leads to struggles. Men are hated in society for having too much privilege. For example a man works extremely hard to get somewhere in life but they are looked at as getting there just because of their gender. But society still expects them to work hard and become the ideal successful male figure. How could they not with all the privilege they have right? Societal expectations, stereotypes, and stigmas are the root causes in men's mental health . 

Research from the Hawaii Pacific University shows that  women are more known to be diagnosed with depression than men. But the suicide rate shows men are more likely to commit suicide than women. They also go on and explain how men often self-treat meaning they do not seek help.  This leads to issues for men such as substance abuse leading to suicide death by overdose, and compulsive gambaling. Addiction and gambling are shown more in men than women.

As children we are taught from our parents that drugs and alcohol are dangerous. But as we grow older and become young adults it is more exposed to us seen in a different way, as “cool”. As we become adults we see alcohol and drugs as a way to relax and distract us from what is truly going wrong in our lives. Drugs, alcohol, and mental health issues can lead to a dual diagnosis. A dual diagnosis is common especially in men. Remember to always keep in mind that women are most likely to seek out help and men are simply not.  To define dual diagnosis is just how it sounds, you are diagnosed with some sort of mental health issue for example depression and also being diagnosed with a substance use disorder. Men try to fit a mold made out of dominance and strength. The word weak does not fit in the vocabulary of masculinity and society makes it clear . We all love to escape the reality of our lives but for men it is easier to use substances. Men suffer more than women from substance abuse. Getting addicted to drugs or alcohol is manifested independently, but mental health is intertwined and one can fuel the other and that's why we see a lot of male suicide deaths due to a overdose. 

Men deal with trauma in a different way than women do. Men feel a need to fulfill their jobs and to make sure they show leadership and responsibility. Women are more nurturing  and feel a need to love and take care of others. Having pressure on a man and the stigma built up around a man leads them to hide their emotions. As a society we build this picture of the perfect man that we require men to meet. 

Toxic masculinity is built by social and cultural norms and expectations pushing harmful traits on masculinity. This construct fosters aggressive competitiveness, dominance, and the suppression of any traits deemed "feminine." Toxic masculinity not only limits the emotional well-being and self-expression of men but also perpetuates harmful power dynamics and contributes to gender inequality. Recognizing and challenging these harmful norms is essential for fostering healthier and more inclusive ideas about masculinity, allowing individuals to embrace a broader spectrum of traits and behaviors that contribute to genuine personal growth and positive relationships.

In the Catholic religion we see Jesus has a perfect representation as a follower of Jesus. In the figure of Jesus, we witness a portrayal of a man at ease with his masculinity, radiating both confidence and comfort. His example challenges the prevalent belief that masculinity is inherently linked to emotional stoicism. When we refer to displaying emotions, it extends beyond mere tears, encompassing a wide spectrum ranging from delight and serenity to sorrow, grief, and joy. Jesus' embodiment of a nuanced emotional range serves as a powerful counterpoint to the contemporary misconception that equates masculinity solely with an absence of feelings. 

In my own opinion I believe that men's mental health needs to be more talked about within the Church and outside of the Church. People in this world need to understand no matter what gender someone is, we all have struggles and that men are not all born perfect. I believe opening the conversation can help our society understand a man's perspective.