Young Australian men are increasingly calling ambulances due to unmanaged anxiety, often mistaking physical symptoms for heart attacks, driven by stigma, lack of awareness, and cultural expectations around masculinity. The article highlights the need for better awareness, early diagnosis, and accessible support pathways to address men's mental health effectively.
People battling depression often struggle to express their emotions and thoughts due to the overwhelming nature of the illness. They may not be able to articulate what is wrong, apologize for hurtful words, ask for space, or seek help. The societal stigma surrounding mental health, particularly for men, further complicates the situation. It is important to understand and support individuals with depression, encouraging them to seek treatment and providing a safe space for emotional expression.
Jonah Barrow, an 18-year-old suicide attempt survivor, shares his mental health struggles and how music therapy helped him recover. Barrow encourages others to speak out about their mental health struggles and seek support. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among U.S. high school students, and experts emphasize the importance of parents talking to their children about suicide and listening to their replies. Barrow hopes to change the mind of at least one person and relieve them of their suffering.
Howie Mandel, comedian and "America's Got Talent" judge, opened up about his ongoing struggles with anxiety and depression during an appearance on "The Joe Rogan Experience." Despite finding success and having a great support system, Mandel admitted to feeling like a "mess" and struggling with quiet time. He credits staying busy, exercise, and medication for helping him cope. Mandel has previously spoken publicly about having obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and fighting against the stigma attached to mental health problems.
Trauma therapist Simone Saunders is shedding light on the use of distraction as a coping mechanism for anxiety, which can be both healthy and harmful. While distraction may provide temporary comfort, it can also maintain anxiety in the long run if not addressed. Saunders suggests sitting with uncomfortable feelings and facing the causes of anxiety head-on as a healthier way of coping. Despite progress in mental health awareness, honest conversations about mental health are still a recent development due to the stigma surrounding it.