Men on the Move - A Message for Men's Mental Health Month

June has now arrived, and it is not only about closing schools for summer or starting grill parties (it is a big YES to both, though). It's also Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to ditch the outdated script of masculinity and embrace something way more powerful: mental wellbeing.

For many years, 'manning up' equated to suppressing feelings like a game of who could be the most stiff-necked titan. Cultures taught us to be unemotional, solid figures, and here we are. Guess what? Even rocks crumble under pressure. This month, we are stepping up to take charge of our story.

Men having a conversation

This month, let us honor the men who refuse to fit into the predefined roles that society offers them. The male victims, the male survivors, the men who discuss these issues and who ask for help, and who look after their wellbeing. Because true strength should be embracing who you are and not trying to cover up your weaknesses.

Here's why prioritizing mental health is the ultimate power move

• Level Up Your Life: It perfectly portrays the human brain as a high-performance engine. As someone once said, just like a car needs frequent servicing, the brain requires an equivalent dose of attention. A healthy mind keeps you effective in your daily life at the workplace, at home, and in all other aspects.

mentally strong man

• Vulnerability is Your New Wingman: Propagation of your problem is not a symbol of shame – it is a symbol of courage and the basis of true fellowship. The ability to share with friends, families, or a therapist fosters deeper relationships and the care that is deserved.

• Growth is the New Black Belt: Something forces you to adapt occasionally, and that's all right. So it is not just about the incidents that happen to us but how we react to them that matters. Getting and maintaining therapy is a way of courageously being the best version of yourself that one can ever be.
  

Here's your action plan to become a mental health champion

• Talk it Out, Don't Bottle it Up: Leave the 'silent type' stereotype behind you at the office door. Solicit someone you trust as a friend, family member, therapist, or group of men's support. I have to express myself – it is liberating and constructive indeed.
  

men support group

• Find Your Chill Zone: Walking, running, meditation, and spending time doing crunches or nature walks – all of these things can help take your mental health to the next level. Determine what helps you as far as gaining strength and maintaining health is concerned and integrate it into your daily regimen.

• Sleep is Your Superpower: You would not hope to compete in a marathon when your tank is empty, so do not expect your brain to be fully functional when you lack sleep. Get enough sleep – good for your mind and body.

• Challenge Your Inner Jerk: This is the self-doubt we all carry around in our heads occasionally. Do not listen to that mean person! Cancel out such negative thoughts and replace them with affirmations that embrace the wonderful person that you are.

Knowing that many other men are also undergoing your challenges is crucial, gentlemen. They speak about millions of men who have stepped up, increasing their mental health and living much better. This month, let us raise our voices and seek help because it is a sign of strength and a continuous process of mental health.

Here are some resources to get you started

• National Alliance on Mental Illness

• Movember

• The Jed Foundation

Let's continue the conversation. In the comments below, share your thoughts and experiences about men's mental health. Together, we can break the stigma and create a world where all men feel empowered to prioritize their wellbeing.