Introduction
Human health is a complex aggregation of multiple factors and hormones play a critical role in maintaining its stability. Hormones are crucial for the body’s growth, emotional wellbeing, sleep regulation, reproduction, and many other important functions. An imbalance in these hormones can lead to numerous health problems. This article primarily discusses the criticality of hormonal balance for health and brings focus to the impact that gender expectations could have on the psychological health of men.
Description of Gender Expectations and their impact on men’s mental health
Societal gender roles and expectations play an essential part in shaping our behavior, roles, relationships and overall mental health. In many cultures, men are often expected to be strong, unemotional and resilient. These expectations can sometimes create pressure on them to conform, leading to stress and other mental health issues.
Stress and Anxiety
With stringent norms to adhere to, the constant drive to exhibit strength and withhold emotions, can lead to elevated stress levels in men. Chronic stress can become a trigger point for anxiety disorders. As per World Health Organization (WHO), globally, more than 260 million people suffer from anxiety disorders, a larger proportion of whom are men.
Depression
Depressive disorders, another significant health concern, are often under-diagnosed in men. It is because culturally “accepted” masculinities discourage them from expressing their emotional distress and seeking help. A significant imbalance in depressive hormones, such as serotonin, can have damaging consequences leading to severe depression.
Examples of how gender roles can impact men’s lives
Examples of the impact of gender roles on men’s mental health are evident in everyday life. High expectations of constant resilience can lead men to ignore their mental health problems, worsening the issues over time. They are more likely to use potentially harmful coping mechanisms, like substance abuse, which can significantly affect their lifespan, work life and relationships. Society’s narrow image of masculinity can also lead to difficulties in forming intimate relationships or expressing feelings.
Tips for improving mental health considering the gender roles
Men can work towards improving their mental health despite the societal pressures around gender roles. Here are a few suggestions:
- Communicate: Building an open channel of communication about feelings and emotions is critical. It helps in relieving stress and enabling early detection of mental health concerns.
- Professional Help: Seek professional help when required. Psychologists, Psychiatrists, and therapists are equipped to handle mental health problems and can provide suitable guidance.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition can help maintain a healthy hormonal balance and consequently, a healthier mental state.
- Social Support: Active engagement in social activities can serve as an effective stress reliever. Also, forming close bonds with friends and family members can provide a safety net in times of crisis.
Conclusion
It is essential for society as a whole to address toxic aspects of gender roles and expectations that can harm men’s mental health. Men should feel empowered to share their emotions openly and seek professional help when required. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle also has a significant influence on one’s mental health, by maintaining hormonal balance in the body. Ultimately, addressing these gender-based issues can lead to healthier, happier individuals and communities.
