WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, nearly one in 10 men experience depression or anxiety, but less than half seek help.

Mental Health America says more than four times as many men than women die by suicide in the United States. Last year, New Hanover County reported a suicide rate nearly double the national average.

According to the county, 83% of the 36 reported suicides in 2021 were men. In 2022, 75% of the 55 reported suicides were men.

“Seeking help, for men, is usually one of the hardest things for men, because we’re usually supposed to take care of other people,” said Jeffrey Jordan with Wilmington Mental Health.

Wilmington Mental Health Therapist Gage Howard says there are a variety of factors that often stop men from seeking treatment.

“Typically, they feel like they have to hide their emotions, especially from their significant other if they’re in a relationship. Because of them hiding it, they often feel inferior at times,” Howard said.

As part of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, therapists are trying to break the stigma surrounding men’s health and encouraging people to seek help if they need it.

“My experience is, a lot of the stigma that used to be attached with counseling is dissipating,” said Therapist Adam Howell. “We’ve been noticing an increase in male participation in therapy upwards of 20 or 30 percent since the pandemic hit.”

Howard says it is important to remember that help is always available.

“It’s a lot braver to be able to ask for help than to suppress that,” said Howard. “That’s what a lot of people, regardless of gender, struggle with. They feel asking for help is a sign of weakness, when in reality, it just takes more courage to actually make that step.”

If you are struggling, help is available. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is open 24/7. You can call or text 988.

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