Topic Tuesday // Is mental health more challenging for men? // 20 June, 7pm AEST

Can you tell us a little about those different experiences between male and female Psychologists @Adge? That's not something I've heard before.

However my experiences with psychologists of different genders has been very different. So that is something that I need to consider carefully before going to a psychologist (or seeking help).-- very true @Adge

@Former-Member,the psychologists that my husband has seen , and that is a few , one kept blaming me for not doing enough , the other one tried to get him to be more assertive , and the last one said I cant help you

so My husband says he is never going back

Finding the right job when you have a mental health challenges is so tough @Shaz51. People so often have to do what your hubby has done and find work well below their ability level. This helps keep stress levels down and can be protective of their mental health on one level but is also quite demoralising too.

Very true @Adge. If anyone has a bad experience with their attempts at getting assistance or seeing a psych who lacks empathy or professional acumen, that is definitely going to put them off seeking help down the track.

I think it's important for the general population to be more aware of detecting mental illness amongst their work colleagues, friends, neighbours and relatives. The "ruok" campaign is a great campaign but more needs to be done.

very true @Former-Member

Hi @Former-Member and others,

I definitely think men face some challenges that women don't, when it comes to MI. Even here in Forum Land it is readily apparent that the vast majority of forumites are female - which I think is indicative of the broader issue that women are more likely to reach out for support. I think the whole attitude of "big boys don't cry" still pervades our society far too much - and most likely will continue to do so. I can see how this would create an added barrier to seeking support, that women don't have to deal with so much.

That's awful @Shaz51, little wonder Mr Shaz isn't keen on going back to a psychologist.

This helps keep stress levels down and can be protective of their mental health on one level but is also quite demoralising too.-- this is a good point @Former-Member, it is hard on how to help him

So we're saying that there are barriers to men seeking help but are we also saying that there are barriers within the help itself? Are there ways that the mental health sector is failing men? Is that something you have a perspective on @Glen-MensLineAu?