Why staying silent isn’t healthy
In the early weeks of August 2014, a man who brought joy to the faces his fans, took his life after battling with depression for several decades. The untimely death of Robin Williams brought the issues of depression and suicide in men to the forefront.
…depression and suicide rates among men are on the rise…
The truth is, and perhaps I am not speaking on behalf of all men, men feel as though their place in society correlates directly with the amount of money they rack-in every month. This faulty perception puts an enormous pressure on men, especially us young guys who might wish to pursue a career which we are passionate about, but are afraid to do so because it is not very financially attractive. That dose of optimism often comes with a side of heart-shattering realism. It’s 2014; we have fully incorporated same-sex relationships into our agenda, we have achieved remarkable feats in human rights regulation, yet depression and suicide rates among men are on the rise, especially here in North America, the U.K, and Japan. Why is it that these countries, with such congratulatory status, have such detrimental rates of suicide? The answer might not be surprising.
…it has been wrong to think that the men who boast of their wealth or power are those we should look up to…
From 2000 to 2011, suicide rates in North America had increased to 12.3 per 100,000 people, the majority of which were middle-aged (45-59). What puzzles researchers, however, is that men are four times more likely to commit suicide than women, even though studies show that women are twice more likely to develop symptoms of depression than men. This may seem like an inconsistency at first, but then again, how often have you heard a man in his 40s to 50s vocalize his emotions to another person, let alone a stranger conducting research?
Symptoms of depression in men manifest themselves differently than women, it doesn’t always result in crying or sadness or other conventional signs we might think of. Men are more likely to display signs of “anger attacks/aggression, irritability, substance abuse, and risk-taking behaviours,” according to research conducted by Lisa Martin and Harold Neighbours of the University of Michigan, and Derek Griffith of Vanderbilt University. When these symptoms are factored into the equation, depression rates are as high as women, perhaps even higher.
This raises the question, why are men so depressed? Why are they less vocal about it? What could possibly be causing this tide of suicide and depression?
To be a gentleman, in my opinion, is not to flaunt your wealth, not to disrespect women or treat them like objects, it does not involve putting another man down, or asserting your manliness through any interaction with another person, for that matter. A man has an opportunity to alter a small portion of the world to benefit him and everyone around him, to make the world a better place and bring justice to those who deserve it. Throughout history, it has been wrong to think that the men who boast of their wealth or power are those we should look up to; I say we should not look anywhere, because the real men behind these glories and triumphs are unsung heroes who thrive in silence and let their success do the talking.
What can we do to get rid of these terrible suicide rates? The world is a beautiful place, we are blessed with friendships, passions, and curiosity; in the grand scheme of things, life is a wild, precious ride. Next time you see a man, or anyone, going through a personal crisis, brighten up their day with a smile or a reassuring pat on the back. Thank your parents for paying for your studies, and thank your dad for dealing with all of the difficulties of life while putting bread on your table and raising you to be the person that you are. Men might not show it, but they can be very emotional as well.
Society tells you to pursue a career that doesn’t bring you joy? The hell with society I say, we’re humans, we’re bound to the natural cycle of things. What happens to us in our lifetime is in the palms of our hands; there is a vast world out there that’s calling out to you, the world is colourful, there is wisdom to be discovered at every corner of it – go out and explore. Money and family will eventually come, enjoy your life! After all, you only get one.
If you are ever feeling like there is no one to speak to, do not hesitate to email me personally, or call the university’s counselling services at 519-824-4120 Ext. 53244