Barriers toward help-seeking among young men prior to suicide

Abstract

This study explores barriers to help-seeking among young men prior to suicide. We analyzed 61 in-depth interviews with parents, siblings, friends, and ex-partners of 10 young men (aged 18-30) with no record of mental illness, as well as 6 suicide notes, using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Three barriers emerged: (a) a total defeat; (b) no room for weakness; and (c) fear of mental disorder. The shame from falling short of standards (own/significant male others') could be a considerable barrier to help-seeking in a suicidal crisis.

The Influence of Masculine Norms and Mental Health on Health Literacy Among Men: Evidence From the Ten to Men Study

“…A range of reasons have been presented to explain this behavioral practice, observed among men, of avoiding treatment when experiencing mental health problems or suicidality (e.g., Rasmussen et al., 2018; River, 2016; Seidler et al, 2017; Wenger, 2011). Some research has focused on masculinity as a key driver of health service use (Addis & Mahalik, 2003; Galdas et al, 2005).…”

“…As in many other areas of the world, Australian males are at a greater risk of dying from suicide than females (World Health Organization, 2014). Studies also suggest that they are less likely to seek treatment from a mental health professional (Galdas, Cheater, & Marshall, 2005; Rasmussen, Hjelmeland, & Dieserud, 2018; Wang et al, 2005). When men do seek treatment, researchers argue that this is often only at the behest of others and in the context of severe mental health issues (Seidler, Rice, River, Oliffe, & Dhillon, 2017).…”

Change in attitude towards suicide with current undergraduate training in psychiatry: a cross-sectional study

“…As stated above, the availability of and referral to such services together with the willingness to seek is the backbone of suicide prevention. 19,20 Acceptability of suicide, open reporting of suicide, communicating suicidal problems, hiding suicidal behaviour and emotional involvement with suicidal person showed no significant change in responses from both groups despite the score being unfavourable. These factors can be considered basic personal attitudes towards life and existential issues, and hence they may not be amenable to change through simple exposure to psychiatry education.…”

Girls suffer: the prevalence and predicting factors of emotional problems among adolescents during upper secondary school in Norway

“…At the same time, the potential for experiencing a situation with a lot of pressure such as stress may be explained by gender differences in the amount of resources available in the situation and to differences in the coping strategies available to girls and boys. However, other research indicates that the suicidal rates are far higher among men compared with women (Oliffe et al, 2016;Rasmussen et al, 2017). This may indicate that stress and emotional problems among adolescent boys are underreported.…”