“Tough it out,” “Rub some dirt on it,” and “Don’t cry” are some of the things you may have been told or tell your boys as they grow up. Discouraging men from expressing vulnerability has played a large role in the growing concern for their mental health. According to Mental Health America, over six million men suffer from depression, and more than three million suffer from some anxiety disorder. Eating disorders are also a concern because they are less likely to seek professional help than women, even though they make up 10 percent of patients with anorexia or bulimia and 35 percent of patients with a binge eating disorder. Simon Rabas, LCSW, who provides Behavioral Health services at Door County Medical Center Sturgeon Bay Clinic, says breaking through the stigma is the first and toughest step to addressing mental health in men.

Rabas encourages men to improve their mental well-being by staying connected with friends and family, becoming physically active, seeking professional help, practicing mindfulness, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and setting realistic goals. June is Men's Mental Health Month and you can click this link to listen to our full interview with Rabas.