THE need to raise awareness about the physical and mental health of men around the world used to be generally overlooked till the month of November was designated as the Men’s Health Month in 1992. The particularly ignored part was the mental health and that had serious consequences for societies at large.

According to the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), 20 per cent of people worldwide suffer from depression, compared to 34pc in Pakistan. There are only 500 psychiatrists for 220 million people in the country due to which mental illnesses are not treated at all in 90pc cases, and in the remaining 10pc, it is not treated when actually needed.

An estimated 50 million people in Pakistan suffer from mental illnesses. These diseases include depression, intoxication, schizophrenia, double personality, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. According to a survey, 36pc people in Pakistan suffer from anxiety and depression. The main reason for this is keeping the family members in the dark about their condition, and even when they are taken into confidence, family members generally find it beyond their comprehension.

It is a global problem that men are expected to behave in a certain fashion, and their traditional role in society is such that they are reluctant to talk to anyone about their state of mental health.

We know that stereotypes about women hurt women, but we do not know and do not want to talk about the traditional roles, stereotypes and expectations associated with men. What effect does it have on the mind? Men are generally seen as bread-earners, strong and influential. There is something wrong with that, as one of the downsides is that while playing this role, the man is reluctant to talk to anyone about any kind of help even when under stress. As a result, it is too late for his family and friends to find out.

The methods men use to deal with mental illness are quite harmful. For example, instead of talking to their friends or acquaintances, they resort to drugs or alcohol, which, instead of any benefit, can lead to even further problems.

According to a study conducted in Pakistan, men commit more suicides than women due to depression; the unfortunate rate is six to one. According to the World Health Organisation, 13,000 to 14,000 people commit suicide in Pakistan every year, while the number of unsuccessful attempts is in the millions. From 2002 to 2019, the suicide rate among men was 13pc. Among women, the rate fell to 4.3pc from 4.9pc.

Men should be given space to share their mental chaos. The stereotype, like men do not cry, has to go out of the window now.

Babar Ali Palli
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, December 14th, 2021