With the impact of the ongoing global pandemic still being felt across the board, it’s never been more important to take stock of your mental and physical health. According to Professor Matt Bambling, Clinical Psychologist and Chair of Psychological Science at the Australian College of Applied Professions, the lifetime prevalence for a man receiving a diagnosis of a mental health disorder is about 25%. Within the last 12 months, 15% of Australian males received a diagnosis.

In Australia, the situation is more complex. With research suggesting that men are around half as likely as women to seek help if they develop mental health problems, the rate of diagnosis may be higher than reported. The issue stems from cultural stigma, which Professor Bambling explained is, while not unique to Australia, inherently different Down Under than other regions.

The statistics, while damning, aren’t exactly new. For years, we’ve known that there is a disproportionately high rate of suicide and poor mental health among men, so, why isn’t the needle turning? Well, according to Professor Bambling, it is – It simply takes time.

With Professor Bambling’s insights on hand and Movember in full swing, we took a deep dive into mental health methodology. The current movement is helping to kick things off, giving men a new chance to speak up and make positive changes, but it’s not just men who benefit from the talk.

According to clinical psychologist, Professor Bambling, staying socially connected is one major strategy for boosting your mental health. While it may sound simple, the impact of getting out and about, even when you don’t want to can be resounding. “Social withdrawal is a classic male coping strategy that does not work. Visit, call and get them out of the house and connected with family and friends,” he said.

Further to that point, general health behaviour can also play a significant role in your overall demeanour. Exercise is a powerful de-stressor and antidepressant, getting active regularly will help a lot. Advising men not to overuse alcohol or other drugs as a way of coping, to eat well and look after their sleep patterns can make a huge difference to the severity of symptoms and recovery.

As we’ve seen throughout the pandemic and associated lockdowns, issues relating to financial burden can be greatly exasperated during difficult times. This, in turn, can add pressure to the mix, causing stress and hitting your happiness hard.

Finally, it’s time to look interpersonal. Take stock of those around you and think about their actions. Charting their behaviour will allow you to better understand what they are going through and help you to tailor your support.