𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐬 – 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐎𝐮𝐭 ‘𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐆𝐮𝐲’ 𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐧

…𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒔 𝒖𝒓𝒈𝒆 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒍𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒈𝒎𝒂 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝒂𝒔 𝒔𝒖𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒆.

By Lhendup Wangmo

Mental health issues among men have long been overshadowed by societal norms and expectations, leading to a widespread reluctance to discuss emotional well-being. For years, men have faced unique pressures stemming from traditional views on masculinity, career, and family roles, which often discourage them from seeking help. Despite growing awareness about mental health, many men continue to struggle in silence, fearing judgment and stigma.

Experts are now calling for more targeted mental health initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges, urging communities, schools, and workplaces to create environments where men feel safe and supported in talking about their mental health.

As of 2024, Bhutan has recorded a total of 293 suicide cases from 2022 to 2024, with a disproportionate number of male suicides. According to the Royal Bhutan Police, of the 83 suicide cases reported in 2024, 60 involved men, continuing a troubling trend that has raised alarm across the country.

Samtse, a southern dzongkhag, recorded the highest number of male suicides in 2024, with 10 cases. It was followed by Sarpang with 9, and both Paro and Thimphu reported 6 cases each. These statistics accentuate the widespread nature of the issue, affecting various regions. In contrast, dzongkhags like Haa, Dagana, and Bumthang reported no male suicides for the year.

From 2022 to 2024, men accounted for 233 of the total 293 suicides, highlighting their disproportionate vulnerability. This alarming pattern signals the urgent need for targeted mental health initiatives that address the unique challenges men face in Bhutanese society. These include societal stigma surrounding emotional expression, the pressure to conform to traditional notions of masculinity, and the reluctance to seek help.

The data accentuate a pressing need for comprehensive interventions to curb the rising suicide rate, particularly among men. It also calls for fostering a culture of openness and acceptance around mental health, encouraging men to seek the support they need before it’s too late. Without such efforts, Bhutan may continue to see a devastating loss of life, making it crucial for both government and community-based organizations to work together in preventing further tragedies.

Rinchen Dawa, a Clinic Counselor at Dagapela Dzongkhag Hospital, recently highlighted two significant barriers men face in accessing mental health services. “Firstly, there’s a lack of awareness or denial about mental health issues within men’s lives due to the influence of a patriarchal society, which often discourages them from seeking help. Secondly, stigma and discrimination, particularly against marginalized groups, prevent men from coming forward for support,” Rinchen Dawa explained. These societal pressures, he believes, contribute to the growing mental health crisis among men, making it harder for them to seek the care they need.

In addition to these barriers, societal norms that equate masculinity with stoicism and emotional suppression are critical factors in preventing men from addressing their mental health struggles. Rinchen Dawa elaborated, “The patriarchal mindset where the expectation is that men cannot show vulnerability or emotion has a profound impact on their mental health. Many men cope with emotional pain through unhealthy outlets like alcohol and substance abuse, which only worsen the situation.” These norms create an environment in which men are often reluctant to seek help for fear of being labeled weak or incapable.

Rinchen Dawa remains optimistic about the potential for positive change. “Mental health services in Bhutan are emerging,” he said. “With the visionary leadership of figures like Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen and The PEMA, mental health services in the country are poised for transformative growth. We are now seeing more services that focus on holistic well-being, including preventive, rehabilitative, and response services that can address the needs of men in particular.” Dawa believes that the country’s current mental health services are well-positioned to meet the specific needs of men, providing an opportunity for growth and innovation in the field.

Despite these developments, Rinchen Dawa points out that there is still a significant gap in services specifically targeting men. “At the moment, there are no mental health initiatives that are specifically aimed at men,” he explained. “However, there are support systems in place, such as tele-counseling services, which help address some of the issues men face when it comes to the fear of being identified or stigmatized.” Tele-counseling, he believes, is one way to help men access support in a more private, anonymous setting, making it easier for them to take the first step toward seeking help.

The most important factor in addressing men’s mental health, Rinchen Dawa argues, is self-awareness. “The best thing any person can do when it comes to mental health is to recognize their own struggles and come forward for help,” he said. “Unawareness of one’s own mental health needs is the primary barrier that must be overcome for successful treatment outcomes.” He believes that community-based mental health services are particularly beneficial for men because they offer a support system that can make it easier for individuals to seek help. “When you have the support of the community, it’s easier for men to open up and access mental health services.”

In addition to these community-based efforts, Rinchen Dawa emphasizes the role of schools and workplaces in promoting mental health for men. He acknowledges the work that has already been done in this area, noting that some schools and workplaces have started to focus on men’s mental health. “One positive step would be to celebrate Men’s Mental Health Day and organize activities that encourage men to share their challenges and experiences,” Dawa suggests. These initiatives, he believes, can help create a culture where mental health is prioritized and men feel more comfortable seeking help when needed.

While there has been progress in promoting mental health awareness, Dawa stresses that community engagement is key. “The best way to engage a person especially a man who might be reluctant to seek help is by using the community as a driving force,” he said. “Men are more likely to participate if they feel supported by those around them. Additionally, the use of social media to spread awareness about the importance of mental health and the availability of services is crucial.” Dawa also encourages men to take responsibility for their mental well-being, noting that online counseling services, like those available through the national hotline (1010/112), can provide crucial support.

While the conversation around mental health has evolved in recent years, Dawa warns against creating a gender divide in mental health services. “It’s important that we don’t segregate mental health services by gender,” he said. “Mental health issues affect everyone, regardless of gender, and the approach to treatment should be unified. It’s about creating services that meet the needs of the individual, without perpetuating harmful stereotypes or stigma.” Dawa stresses that the well-being of all individuals, regardless of gender, can be enhanced when mental health services are designed with an inclusive, holistic approach.

Rinchen Dawa’s perspective on the future of mental health services in Bhutan is hopeful. “I believe that if we all work together, we can break down the barriers that prevent people from seeking help,” he said. “By fostering a culture of understanding and support, we can create a community where men, like everyone else, are able to prioritize their mental health without fear of judgment.” Dawa also reminds us that the impact of mental health challenges is not gender-specific both men and women experience similar emotional struggles, and the key to improving mental health outcomes lies in fostering unity and community support.

The stigma surrounding men’s mental health continues to present significant barriers, but there are clear signs of progress. With increased awareness, more targeted initiatives, and a stronger sense of community support, men can begin to access the help they need to address their mental health challenges. By breaking down societal norms that discourage emotional expression and prioritizing mental well-being, we can build a future where men no longer have to suffer in silence. As experts like Rinchen Dawa suggest, the path forward is one of collaboration, understanding, and a unified approach to mental health for all.

Sonam Tashi, a 33 year old father of two, echoes the pressures faced by many men today. “Being a man is sometimes very difficult,” he said. “As the head of the family, you’re expected to shoulder all the responsibility. There’s a constant pressure to be strong and never show vulnerability, which can be mentally exhausting.” Sonam’s experience reflects a widespread feeling among men, where the role of the provider and protector leaves little room for emotional expression, creating a sense of isolation and internalized struggles.

The emotional toll of these societal pressures is significant. Experts agree that the inability to express vulnerability can have serious long-term effects, contributing to anxiety, depression, and burnout. The stigma surrounding mental health in men only amplifies these struggles, making it more challenging for them to seek the help they need. However, there is hope that as awareness continues to grow, more men will feel empowered to break free from these limiting norms and seek the support they deserve.

Prem Nath Chapagai, the Counsellor at Lhamoizingkha Higher Secondary School (HSS) under Dagana Dzongkhag, shared insights into the mental health challenges faced by students. He pointed out that common issues include stress and anxiety related to academics, family problems, peer conflicts, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, relationship troubles, and depression. Other struggles like poor self-esteem, difficulty expressing emotions, and anger management issues are also prevalent.

A significant concern, especially for male students, is the societal pressure related to masculinity. Society often expects men to be emotionally strong, suppress their feelings, and manage their burdens on their own. This stereotype discourages many male students from seeking support, as they may feel vulnerable or fear being judged.

However, Prem Nath Chapagai emphasized that male students do seek help when needed. This shift is due to greater awareness of available mental health resources, the presence of mentor-mentee programs, a supportive school environment, trained professionals, and anti-bullying initiatives. The Students Resilient Development Program (SRDP) has played a key role in helping students build resilience and confidence in seeking help when they feel down. Regular reminders from counsellors, teachers, and school leaders reinforce the message that it’s okay to seek support.

Prem Nath Chapagai also highlighted the importance of peer support networks, where students feel more comfortable discussing mental health with others who share similar experiences. Developing a strong, trusting relationship with male students outside of the counselling sessions is also essential. Counsellors must empathize with the challenges these students face and assure them that their concerns will be treated with confidentiality, with certain exceptions when necessary. Explaining the long-term consequences of not seeking help can also motivate students to open up. Gradual steps towards opening up, starting with less personal topics, can ease the process.

When it comes to creating a safe and non-judgmental space for male students to talk about their emotions, Prem Nath Chapagai focuses on building strong rapport, clarifying the boundaries of confidentiality, and outlining the available support systems. The environment must be one where students feel respected and heard, allowing them to express their feelings without fear of criticism. Patience is crucial, as students need time to process their emotions in their own way.

Group counselling and peer support programs also play a vital role in supporting male students’ mental health. These programs help students understand that mental health struggles are not unique to them, fostering a sense of acceptance. They also provide students with tools to cope with negative emotions and build resilience. In a group setting, students can share their experiences in a safe environment, breaking the isolation often felt by those dealing with mental health issues. These programs help build empathy, understanding, and a sense of community, contributing to improved mental well-being.

Reenu Monger, a counsellor at Renew, shed light on the often-overlooked issue of men’s mental health and the social dynamics that contribute to their emotional struggles. According to Reenu Monger, societal pressures, particularly from women and external expectations, can have a damaging effect on men’s emotional well-being, sometimes leading to domestic violence.

Reenu Monger explained that many men, due to societal norms, feel compelled to hide their emotions, which results in internalized mental health issues. “Men often have to summon a lot of courage to come forward and express their feelings. They carry a sense of pride and ego that prevents them from opening up about their struggles,” she said. This reluctance to discuss their emotions is often linked to a lack of awareness regarding mental health and the impact it can have on their overall well-being.

The counsellor emphasized the importance of help-seeking behavior, noting that when men reach out to close ones or seek professional help, they are likely to experience improvements in their mental health. “If men can overcome their ego and pride, and share their feelings without fear of judgment, they will be encouraged to take better care of their mental health,” Reenu Monger explained. However, she also acknowledged that despite increasing awareness, social norms and stigma still persist. “I don’t think we are at 100% yet. The stereotype around masculinity is still deeply rooted, especially in rural areas, where the pressure to conform is even more intense.”

Reenu Monger stressed the need for continued efforts to break down these stereotypes and create safe spaces for men to discuss their emotions. By encouraging open dialogue and offering judgment free support, society can help men recognize the importance of mental health and ensure they are not suffering in silence.

A 17 year old student, soon to begin his 12th grade at a local high school, shared his personal perspective on the challenges of being a boy in today’s society. Reflecting on the pressures and expectations placed on young men, he said, “Being a boy or a man can be really difficult sometimes. People expect you to always be strong, to not show emotions, and to just deal with things on your own. But it’s not that simple.”

The teenager, who prefers to remain anonymous, explained that societal expectations often create internal struggles for boys, making it harder for them to express vulnerability. “It’s like you have to fit into this perfect mold. If you show that you’re not okay or that you’re feeling down, people look at you differently. It’s tough because you feel like you have to hide your emotions,” he added.

While acknowledging the support he’s received from his close friends and family, he pointed out that the stigma around men seeking help still exists, particularly in smaller communities. “Even though there are people who care, it’s hard to talk about things openly. It feels like there’s always a judgment about how you’re supposed to act as a guy,” he said.

As he prepares for his final year of high school, the teenager expressed hope that attitudes toward mental health and gender expectations will continue to change. “I think it’s important for boys to know that it’s okay to not be okay, and that asking for help doesn’t make you weak. It’s just part of being human,” he said. His candid reflection sheds light on the ongoing need for open conversations about mental health and the pressures young men face as they navigate a world that often demands emotional stoicism.

The mental health of men remains an often overlooked yet critical issue. Societal expectations, such as the pressure to conform to rigid notions of masculinity, continue to create barriers for men seeking help. The stigma surrounding emotional vulnerability and the fear of judgment discourage many from opening up about their struggles. However, as awareness grows and conversations around mental health become more inclusive, there is hope for change. Creating spaces where men feel safe to express their emotions, seek help, and break free from traditional gender roles is essential for fostering mental well-being. By challenging harmful stereotypes and encouraging emotional openness, society can support men in building healthier, more resilient lives. Recognizing that mental health is a universal concern, regardless of gender, is key to ensuring that no one has to suffer in silence. In times of need, it’s crucial to know that help is just a phone call away. If you’re seeking assistance or guidance, you can easily reach out to the Renew Troll Free Number at +975 17126353, where support is available for a variety of concerns. Additionally, for more specific needs, The PEMA Helpline at 1010 offers dedicated services to support individuals in distress, providing crucial resources and advice. Both helplines are essential resources designed to ensure that no one has to face their challenges alone. Don’t hesitate to reach out to these services for the help you need.