A letter from the editors,
Mental health is an issue that impacts millions of individuals every year, yet despite the relevance, it tends to be a topic avoided in discussions. As a Roar staff, we are working to break the stigmas around mental health issues and cover stories that deal with this difficult topic.
We strive to write articles that matter.
The article below is an article for a section we are working to develop thoughtfully and purposefully, regarding mental health. As Men’s Health Awareness Month just wrapped up, we felt it was appropriate to cover the topic.
Olivia Austin, Calvin Hyde and Victoria Scovel
As November was Men’s Health Awareness Month, it is important to continue to recognize the issue of overlooking men’s mental and physical health and how it affects many individuals.
Highlighting the issue of men’s mental and physical health not supported, November is also known as Movember. Movember is an annual event, during the month of November, associating the growing of moustaches to raise awareness of men’s health issues. These issues include prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s suicide.
It’s important to hold awareness around this month, to show care towards men’s health.
MentalHealth.net shows that more than 6 million men suffer from mental health each year, causing suicide in men to be the 7th main cause of death providing 2.2% of males in 2011 as men suicide rates are 3.5x above women suicide rates.
“While women are more likely to attempt it, men are more likely to succeed,” said MentalHealth.Net, referring the differentiation in suicide rates between Men and Women.
While each male individual may be sensitive to a different subject, it is important to stay aware of what is said and actions made. Many different subjects contribute to Men’s mental health conditions including sexism, trauma, poor working conditions, traditional gender roles, child abuse, family issues, loss of work, divorce, finacial issues and stubstance absue.
Individuals who want to support Men’s Health Awareness Month should be aware and conscious of the men around them them as everyone has been through or is currently going through their own experiences with sensitive issues.
Many programs and foundations have been created surrounding the topic of men’s health awareness.
As previously mentioned, the Movember Foundation provides awareness and support around men’s physical and mental well-being.
HeadsUpGuys is an organization aiming to help men struggling with mental health and provides information and tips for men’s health and success.
The FaceItFoundation develops an understanding of mental health for men to overcome their internal obstacles. Their goal is to continuously reduce the rate of male suicide.
When recognizing this issue, others may not know how to help or aid men’s health. Klamathfallsnew.org, provides individuals with ways they can support Men’s health. Including staying connected with your friends and family, be a listening ear for those who need it, know when to schedule doctors appointments at certain ages, know what is “normal” relating to your physical appearance or health and keep active.
If personally connected with an individual who may fall under the category or this relates to an individual’s personal well-being, do not be afraid to reach out. Northview High school provides students with many services to help with the mental well-being of students.
Alternatives include the National Alliance on mental illness (Text “NAMI” to 741-741 or call 1-800-950-NAMI), They provide a free text service and hotline to support in crisis, answer mental health questions and give referrals.
As November comes to an end, the awareness of men’s health continues. Be supportive and provide a hand for individuals who struggle.
