Talking To Men About Mental Health

With males less likely to seek help for depression and anxiety, here’s what you can do to encourage them to speak up

- Gabriella Del Grande

In any given year, one in seven Australian men will experience depression or anxiety, or both. Even more startling, about six men die by suicide in our country every day.

These are statistics – and, more importantly, lives – that we can help change.

Dr Grant Blashki, Beyond Blue’s lead clinical adviser, shares his advice on how to talk to the men in our lives about their mental health – and more importantly, get them talking about it...

STARTING THE CONVERSATION

According to Dr Blashki, one of the most common fears for people wanting to have a conversation with their loved ones is that they’re worried they’ll say the wrong thing or making things worse.

“Firstly, if you’re worried about someone, don’t hesitate to reach out – your support could be vital,” Dr Blashki reassures.

“There’s no right or wrong way to go about it, but it’s important that you choose a way that feels comfortable.”

He suggests these three easy steps:

Ask if they want to talk about it. It might be that they don’t want to and that’s OK, too. Maybe you’re not the right person for them to talk to, but you can make some suggestions.