There is something about living with anxiety that cannot be perfectly portrayed via blogging or publishing a personal diary, almost impossible to express with words. There are times when it comes about unannounced, as if it is saying you forgot me for some time but now that I am here, I will ensure that you never ignore me again. Hitting the blues as some people might call it, this feeling is more than just having a bad day. Anybody can have a depressive day, weighed down by deadlines or something that is unrolling within the family. Everybody is susceptible to run into a couple of days of a bad mood, but when you start feeling uncomfortable, when you are asleep and awake, despite nothing in your regular schedule going horribly wrong, you know anxiety is taking over. I wonder if people talk about this, and most importantly, acknowledge it.
Sometimes, I feel women get little leverage from their otherwise complex and very demanding bodily constitution. The urban mindset largely understands that for a few days in a month, women can get highly irritable, most likely to snap or they just might get too reserved, as if they always wanted to live alone in an igloo. The concept of "that time of the month" has been here for some time, and people have become far more informed or at least well-mannered enough to acknowledge it and give women the space they need during this "period". In comparison, my bad days are very hard to talk about and even harder to explain. Elders in the family can say that fundamentally, I don't qualify to worry about anything since more than sufficient fixed deposits have been put in place, with my name clearly filled in the nomination section.
You cannot fight this logic, and if you try to do it, you really cannot win the argument. It seems the odds are stacked against explaining to anybody that this feeling of being unsettled and emotionally exhausted is not your typical definition of Stress. This is just like a bout of bad mental healt,h but it will be largely interpreted as being stressed despite having a life partner, child, job, and the comfort of your own home and a financial lineage.
While I am doing the daily chores, answering calls, and typing out emails at the speed of light, one part of my mind is also wondering if the childhood OCD has finally gone or did it manage to stimulate some sort of obsessive personality disorder? On such days, even when shopping online, Google searches can also route towards finding the best and easiest ways to boost dopamine or reading about the struggles of people who have been diagnosed with ADHD [adults], or worse, reading about bipolairsm.
When such days are underway, I wonder we can make people understand that this is something like the flu of the mind? It won't last for too many days, but while it does, I will not have a runny nose or a heated forehead, but I will feel diseased. Taking a vacation or driving to some idyllic destination isn't always an option; sometimes it just isn't feasible. Instead, I will hope for a meal or two to be served in bed, and perhaps, even when applying for a short leave or full-day leave from the workplace, I can actually say, "Sir, I am mentally exhausted and need a small break".
In comparison, women are hopefully taking advantage of clubbing their per-qualified "down" days with a mental health break. If you are a lady out there, and you are not using your time of the month to take a backseat, catch a breath, get some massages, and vent, SHAME ON YOU! While men will never have access to what can be described as Mental Menstruation, you can use the hormonal and biological menstrual days to take a psychological break and reboot your mental reserves, demanding the space you need, just gathering your thoughts and systematically, obliterating the toxic ones - letting them "bleed out" seems like the right thing to do, just for the sake of regaining your mental composure. When one of the genders has something working in its favor, in terms of social acceptance/recognition, at least use it properly rather than trying to be brave about it.
BEYOND PERSONAL OPINIONS: SHARING SOME INFORMATION ABOUT THIS SUBJECT GATHERED FROM THE WEB
Are men more vulnerable to emotional breakdowns?
There is no evidence to suggest that men are more vulnerable to emotional breakdowns than women. Emotional breakdowns can affect anyone, regardless of gender. However, societal expectations and stereotypes may make it more difficult for men to express and seek help for emotional distress. This can lead to men experiencing emotional breakdowns in different ways than women, such as through substance abuse or aggression, rather than seeking help from a therapist or counselor.
Do men suffer from monthly hormonal changes?
No, men do not experience monthly hormonal changes like women do during their menstrual cycle. Men have a relatively stable level of hormones throughout the month. Women have hormonal fluctuations that occur as part of their menstrual cycle, which can affect their mood, energy levels, and physical sensations. Men do not have these fluctuations because they do not have a menstrual cycle. However, men do have their own set of hormonal changes that happen throughout their lifetime, such as the decrease of testosterone levels as they age. Additionally, men can experience hormonal imbalances, which can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, decreased libido, and depression. These conditions can be diagnosed and treated by a medical professional.
Is there an age group among males that is more vulnerable to mood swings?
There is no specific age group among males that is more vulnerable to mood swings. Mood swings can occur in men of all ages and can be caused by a variety of factors such as stress, lack of sleep, poor diet, medical conditions, and medications. However, some specific ages or stages of life may have a higher likelihood of experiencing mood swings. For instance, during adolescence, boys may experience mood swings due to the hormonal changes that happen during puberty. Similarly, middle-aged men may experience mood swings as they go through andropause, which is the gradual decline in testosterone levels that happens as men age. Additionally, men who have mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety may experience more frequent and severe mood swings. It's always important to talk to a healthcare professional if you suspect that you or someone you know is experiencing mood swings that are impacting their daily life.
Are men in their 40s more likely to have mood swings?
Men in their 40s may be more likely to experience mood swings due to the hormonal changes that happen during andropause, which is the gradual decline in testosterone levels that happens as men age. Testosterone plays a key role in mood regulation, so a decline in testosterone levels can lead to mood swings, fatigue, depression, and irritability. However, it's important to note that not all men in their 40s will experience mood swings due to andropause, and many other factors can also contribute to mood swings such as stress, lack of sleep, poor diet, medical conditions, and medications. Additionally, as men in their 40s may be facing other life changes, such as career, family, and financial stressors, these can also contribute to mood swings. It's always important to talk to a healthcare professional if you suspect that you or someone you know is experiencing mood swings that are impacting their daily life.
Should men try hormonal supplements to improve their mental health?
Hormonal supplements, such as testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), may be an option for men who have a diagnosed deficiency in testosterone, which can be confirmed through blood tests. Testosterone replacement therapy can be used to help alleviate symptoms associated with low testosterone levels such as fatigue, depression, and decreased libido. However, it's important to note that TRT is not recommended as a first-line treatment for mood swings or mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, and It should only be considered after other treatments have been tried and have been found to be ineffective. It is also important to note that TRT may have potential side effects and risks, so it should be closely monitored by a healthcare professional. It's always recommended to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, including a physical examination, blood tests, and psychological evaluation, before considering any hormonal supplements. Also, it's important to address any underlying mental health condition and other lifestyle factors such as stress, poor diet, and lack of exercise that may be contributing to mood swings.
Why do some people still believe that men don't cry?
The belief that men don't cry is a stereotype that is rooted in traditional gender roles and societal expectations. Historically, men have been expected to be strong, stoic, and unemotional, while women have been expected to be emotional and nurturing. These societal expectations have led to the belief that men should not cry or show vulnerability, while women are expected to do so. These beliefs are reinforced by the media, movies, and TV shows, where men are often portrayed as strong and unemotional, while women are shown crying and showing vulnerability. This stereotype is also reinforced by societal and cultural expectations, where men who cry are seen as weak or unmanly. However, it's important to note that crying is a natural human emotion, and it is healthy to express emotions. Crying can help to release pent-up emotions and stress, and can help to improve mental and emotional well-being. Men, like women, have the ability to feel a wide range of emotion,s and it is important for them to be able to express them in a healthy way. It's important to challenge this stereotype and to recognize that men are just as capable of experiencing emotions as women and that it's okay for men to cry. Encouraging men to express their emotions in a healthy way can lead to better mental health for everyone.
Which Hollywood movie broke the stereotype about men's emotional health?
One Hollywood movie that helped to break the stereotype about men's emotional health is the 2017 film "A Star Is Born," directed by Bradley Cooper and starring Cooper and Lady Gaga. In the film, Cooper plays a successful musician who is struggling with addiction, depression, and emotional issues. Throughout the film, Cooper's character, Jackson Maine, expresses his emotions and shows vulnerability, crying and expressing his feelings. This was a departure from the typical Hollywood portrayal of men as strong and stoic and helped to challenge the stereotype that men should not show vulnerability or emotions. The film also showed the struggle of men with addiction, depression, and emotional issues, which a common issues that men face but often are not highlighted or talked about. The movie helped to bring attention to the importance of men's emotional health and the need to support men in expressing and managing their emotions. It's important to note that this movie is not the only one that broke this stereotype, but it's one of the most recent and popular ones that brought attention to the topic.
Which Bollywood movie broke the stereotype about men being sensitive?
One Bollywood movie that helped to break the stereotype about men being sensitive is the 2019 film "Kabir Singh" directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and starring Shahid Kapoor. In the film, Kabir Singh is a highly successful, yet short-tempered and self-destructive young surgeon who falls in love with a first-year student and struggles to come to terms with her marriage to someone else. Throughout the film, Kabir Singh's character shows a range of emotions, including vulnerability, hurt, and sadness, which is not commonly seen in Bollywood movies where men are often portrayed as strong, dominant, and unemotional. The film also highlighted the issues of addiction, self-destructive behavior, and mental health, which are often not explored in Bollywood movies. It's important to note that "Kabir Singh" also faced criticisms and controversies, as the protagonist's behavior was seen as toxic and problematic by some. However, it still managed to spark a conversation about men's emotional health and the need for men to be able to express and manage their emotions healthily. It's important to note that this movie is not the only one that broke this stereotype, but it's one of the most recent and popular ones that brought attention to the topic.
Is there an ad campaign that highlighted men as being sensitive?
Yes, there have been several advertising campaigns that have aimed to break the stereotype that men should not show vulnerability or sensitivity. One example is the "Man Up" campaign, which is a public health campaign from the UK that aims to encourage men to talk about their mental health and to challenge the stereotypes that men should be strong and unemotional. The campaign features men of different ages and backgrounds talking about their mental health and the importance of talking about it. Another example is the campaign "Real Strength is Showing Vulnerability" by the Canadian Men's Health Foundation, which aims to challenge the stereotype that men should be tough and unemotional. The campaign encourages men to talk about their feelings and to seek help when they need it. Additionally, "The Man Box" campaign by Promundo is a global campaign that aims to encourage men to rethink traditional gender roles and stereotypes and to challenge the idea that men should be tough and unemotional. These campaigns and others like them aim to break the stereotype that men should not show vulnerability or sensitivity and to encourage men to express their emotions and seek help when they need it. These campaigns also aim to create a culture where it is okay for men to show vulnerability and sensitivity, and to promote better mental and emotional well-being for men.
Is there a brand that pioneered the cause of showcasing sensitive men?
It's difficult to say which brand specifically pioneered the cause of showcasing sensitive men, as different brands have been working on this topic for different periods. However, some brands have been particularly vocal and visible in their efforts to challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes and to showcase sensitive men in their advertising.
One example is the shaving brand Gillette, which in 2019 released an advertisement called "We Believe: The Best Men Can Be," which aimed to challenge traditional masculinity and encourage men to be their best selves. The advertisement featured men of different ages and backgrounds, showing them crying, expressing their emotions, and taking responsibility for their actions. The ad was praised by some for its message of emotional intelligence and self-improvement, and criticized by others as being divisive and portraying men in a negative way. Another example is the men's skincare brand, Dove Men+Care, which has been promoting the idea of "Real Strength" in its advertising campaigns, which aims to challenge traditional stereotypes of masculinity and to showcase men who are sensitive and emotionally expressive. These are just a couple of examples of brands that have attempted to showcase sensitive men in their advertising campaigns, but there are certainly many more brands that have been working on this topic. The message is that it's okay for men to be sensitive and emotionally expressive, and it's important for brands to take a stand for this idea, as it can help break down traditional gender stereotypes and promote better mental and emotional well-being for men.
You might want to read this:
The original text: Male menopause: Myth or reality?
What is this about? The concept of "male menopause" refers to a gradual decline in testosterone levels in men, termed late-onset hypogonadism or age-related low testosterone, which is different from the abrupt hormonal changes women experience during menopause. Symptoms may include reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, depression, fatigue, and decreased muscle mass. Testosterone therapy is considered for men with significant symptoms after risks and benefits are discussed. Regular monitoring and further tests are recommended to confirm low testosterone levels before starting treatment.
The original text: Signs and Symptoms of Male Hormone Imbalance
What is this about? Male hormone imbalance can significantly impact various bodily functions. Symptoms include weight changes, excessive sweating, disrupted sleep, dry skin, blood sugar and pressure changes, fatigue, headaches, depression, mood swings, anxiety, increased thirst, and frequent urination. Hormonal imbalances can affect appetite, metabolism, sexual function, mood, stress levels, and body temperature. Recent studies indicate a link between lack of sleep, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalance, particularly involving testosterone and cortisol, which may lead to Type 2 diabetes. Diagnosis involves medical history, physical exams, and blood tests, with treatments including lifestyle changes, hormone replacement therapy, supplements, and stress management.
The original text: Androgen deficiency in men
What is this about? Androgen deficiency in men is a condition where the body has lower levels of male sex hormones, particularly testosterone. It can be caused by issues in the testes, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus. Symptoms include reduced libido, fatigue, depression, and decreased muscle mass. Diagnosis involves medical history, physical exams, and blood tests. Treatment typically includes testosterone replacement therapy, but it's crucial to accurately diagnose before starting. Self-prescription is unsafe. Older men should be checked for prostate cancer before therapy due to potential risks.
The original text: 5 Facts You Didn’t Know About Men’s Health
What is this about? The YuLife article highlights five lesser-known facts about men's health:
- Men die younger than women, largely due to heart disease and cancer.
- Mental health issues, such as depression and suicide, are prevalent among men.
- Testosterone plays a critical role in protecting heart health.
- Men are less likely to seek medical help and more likely to engage in risky behaviors.
- Regular exercise and a healthy diet can significantly improve men's health outcomes.
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