As Men’s Health Month progresses, men are encouraged to focus not only on their physical health but their mental health, too. 

“Within male populations, research shows masculine norms that guide male development can often exacerbate the power of stigma,” said Lilia Luna, behavioral health director at Northwest Colorado Health. “These stigmas can fortify barriers to accessing care.”

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, nearly one in 10 men experience depression and anxiety, but less than half seek treatment. 

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Although women are more likely to experience a mental illness, men are nearly three times more likely to abuse drugs, according to a study conducted by the National Library of Medicine.

The study also states that men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women in the United States.

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In Routt County, the most common concerns regarding men’s mental health are depression, anxiety and substance abuse, according to Luna. 

The holiday season can be particularly difficult, not just for men, but for anyone facing mental health struggles. Symptoms of mental illness can be exacerbated by the holidays for many reasons, but the most common is revisiting memories.

“During the holidays, there are a lot of traditions and people associated with memories,” Luna said. “Whether these memories are positive, negative or in-between, the holidays can be a triggering time.”

Grief can also be triggered during the holiday season. During difficult times of confronting grief, people must have a support system that they can rely on.

“Northwest Colorado Health is hosting a lot of support groups for grief this holiday season,” said Luna. “It’s a great way to receive additional support during difficult times.”

For many men, as well as anyone struggling with mental health issues, taking the first step toward receiving care can often be difficult. Regardless of the reason for hesitance, Luna wants everyone in Routt County to know they have options.

“At Northwest Colorado Health, we believe health is not just physical, but emotional and behavioral as well,” Luna said. “Every time someone comes in for a medical or dental visit, our teams check their mental health as well. This opens up conversations about their mental health, which is when people are more likely to receive care.”

Luna encourages speaking with a primary care provider to take the first step in addressing mental health concerns. 

For those who don’t have access to healthcare, Luna advises people to fill out a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Although the survey is not used for diagnostics, it can be a tool for those concerned about their emotional well-being. 

Seeking care from a licensed counselor is also a good first step to take. There are plenty of resources in Routt County that provide care such as Reaching Everyone Preventing Suicide (REPS), which helps people access five free sessions of counseling per calendar year.

In the instance of a mental health crisis, Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) is a recommended resource to identify the severity of a situation.

Luna added, “Safety can’t be a secret.” When someone mentions hurting themselves or others, it’s crucial to inform a mental health professional.

As a community, there’s a lot that can be done to help destigmatize mental healthcare, not just for men, but for all. 

“Over 57 million people will be diagnosed with a mental health disorder this year alone,” said Luna. “We all suffer. Suffering is ubiquitous in the human condition.”

Luna also stated that adjusting the attitude toward struggling with mental illness in this way can help normalize seeking help. According to her, doing a mental health screening should be as normal as having a blood pressure screening.

To support men in the Yampa Valley dealing with mental health struggles, it’s important to encourage open and honest conversations about their symptoms. 

“If you notice a loved one struggling, it’s important to be present with them,” said Luna. “If that person comes to you for help, you’ve created a relationship that has psychological safety. Be with them and encourage them to connect with professional care.”

 If you are in a crisis, call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call Colorado Crisis Services at 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text “TALK” to 38255.