Anxiety can affect anyone at any time. Did you know men are often surprised that they’re struggling with anxiety? They may be more inclined to try and hide their anxiety and not seek treatment because they’re worried about what others may think.
Women have higher prevalence rates of anxiety disorders than men. But men are far from immune. A study found that one in five Australian males will suffer from an anxiety condition in their lifetime. Around 22% of males between the age of 16 and 85 have had an anxiety disorder which is the equivalent of 2.1 million men.
Men are less likely to seek a diagnosis or treatment for their anxiety.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is an intensive, persistent worry or stress that does not go away and may not have a clear cause. There are several main types of anxiety.
General Anxiety
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is excessive worry, anxiety or stress about everyday living. Concerns may be about health, family or work can be excessive and cause anxiety.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder is an intense fear and avoidance of social situations that interferes with daily life and relationships.
Panic disorder
Panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks, characterised by symptoms such as chest pain, heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath and stomach pains.
Specific Phobias
Specific phobias occur when a person has an intense fear about a particular situation or object, such as heights, enclosed spaces, flying on a plane, etc.
Obsessive compulsive disorder
Men suffering from OCD experience unwanted, recurring thoughts, obsessions or intrusive thoughts that cause anxiety and fear.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
An extremely traumatic event or experiences such as a natural disaster, war, death or violence can cause post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Causes and Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety can be caused by one or factors impacting a person including stress from work, family members, or a traumatic event. Medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and low testosterone have been linked to anxiety.
The symptoms of anxiety in men can be physical or emotional and can include:
- A racing or pounding heart
- Muscle tension
- Insomnia
- Restless, agitated
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Feeling of dread or doom
- Trouble concentrating and being absentminded
- Avoidance
- Fear of losing control
- Overly vigilant
Getting Support for Anxiety
Poor mental health in men often goes untreated because they are less likely to seek treatment than women. Stigmas are the main reasons why men don’t reach out for help with their anxiety. They may feel that there is a social stigma around mental health where there is a misperception that mental health illness is caused by a weak character. For some men it’s a self-stigma where they’re ashamed of their symptoms.
But there is far more discussion about mental health and reaching out for help than there was a decade ago. High profile sportsmen and male celebrities are talking about their mental health struggles and how they sought treatment. With ongoing discussion, more Australian men will do the same.
If you are worried about someone, reach out to them and offer them support. You don’t need to have all the answers, but just letting them know you are there for them can be a great first step.
Treatment for Anxiety
There are several treatment options for anxiety. One option may be ideal for one person but not another. Often, a combination of lifestyle changes and professional support have the most impact. But the most important thing is to seek support and to feel supported.
Lifestyle Changes
Making some lifestyle changes can help symptoms. Spending time with friends and family can help some men with their anxiety symptoms. Getting enough sleep and eating a well balanced diet can make a difference too. Taking up meditation, yoga, acupuncture or breathing exercises can help with mental health and reduce the symptoms of anxiety.
Medication
Some patients suffering from anxiety are prescribed medication by the doctor. If a man’s testosterone levels are found to be low, they may be offered testosterone replacement therapy but if his hormone levels are normal, he may be treated with antidepressant medication.
Professional Help
Visiting your GP will allow you to better understand whether you’re suffering from anxiety or depression. Your doctor may suggest you make an appointment to see a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Anxiety is the most common mental health condition impacting Australians. As part of Men’s Mental Health Week, we are encouraging men to look out for one another and to seek support. At Altius Group, our qualified psychologists use an evidence-based approach to reduce the impact of anxiety, stress and worry on your life. With over 50 locations across Australia, if you or someone you know needs help, find out more about our mental health services, or call 1800 258 487 for more information.
