Chapter 1: Overview of Male Suicide in the UK

The rates of male suicide in the UK have reached their lowest point in over thirty years. Despite this decline, men still represent a staggering seventy-five percent of all suicide cases in the country. In contrast, the suicide rate among women has remained stable over the past decade (Office for National Statistics, 2017). This article aims to address the pressing issue of male suicide in British society. We will begin with a definition of mental disorders and then discuss concepts of resilience, wellbeing, and distress.

The first video features an insightful interview with an ex-Satanist and high-ranking African warlock who recounts his encounter with Jesus, shedding light on transformative experiences that may resonate with mental health struggles.

Section 1.1: Understanding Mental Disorders

Mental health disorders encompass a wide range of conditions, each with various symptoms that can influence a person's emotional functioning and social interactions. Common examples include depression, schizophrenia, and disorders related to substance misuse. Fortunately, many of these conditions are treatable.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Impact of Mental Health on Wellbeing

According to Cooper (2000), around a quarter of the UK population will experience mental health issues at some point in their lives. It is crucial to nurture mental health to promote emotional resilience and prevent distress. The ability to think clearly, experience emotions healthily, and maintain a balanced life is essential for overall wellbeing. The NHS (2017) supports this notion, indicating that a significant portion of both adults and children face mental health challenges.

Chapter 2: Barriers to Seeking Help

The second video explores the life of a man who unintentionally became responsible for the deaths of many, providing a chilling perspective on the consequences of mental health neglect in society.

The stigma surrounding mental health can deter individuals from seeking help. Corrigan et al. (2011) note that public stigma fosters community discrimination against those perceived as different, while self-stigma occurs when individuals internalize these labels, leading to diminished self-esteem and negative thought patterns. Despite efforts to combat stigma, Corrigan et al. (2014) argue that progress remains slow, partly because mental health services often perpetuate discrimination.

The government has introduced various programs aimed at addressing male mental health issues, yet Geddes et al. (2012) assert that private organizations are increasingly filling the gaps in care due to inadequate government support. While initiatives targeting women's mental health have gained momentum (Gov.uk, 2018), men, particularly those at higher risk of suicide, continue to face a lack of resources and societal barriers to expressing their feelings (Lester et al., 2014).

Samaritans.org, a prominent charity focused on mental health, has conducted thorough research on the reasons behind the alarming suicide rates among men aged 45-49 in England and Wales. Factors contributing to this trend include relationship breakdowns, feelings of inadequacy linked to societal expectations of masculinity, and economic disadvantage. Creighton and Oliffe (2014) emphasize that traditional views of masculinity can lead men to engage in harmful behaviors and discourage them from seeking help.

Evidence suggests that middle-aged men often struggle to access mental health services due to stigma and fear of being labeled (Samaritans, 2017). Research shows that many men only reach out for help when they are at their breaking point, often dismissing anxiety and depression as trivial concerns (Sullivan, 2011, in Barry et al., 2019).

As we examine the complexity of mental health and the social factors that contribute to male suicide, it becomes clear that the British government has not effectively addressed the needs of men in crisis. Despite the recognition of male suicide as a significant concern, substantial changes to support systems remain elusive. Austerity measures and inadequate interventions have led to a failure to provide necessary outreach for vulnerable males, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

Ultimately, the disconnect between government policies and the reality faced by men in crisis highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to mental health that prioritizes both awareness and access to care. The ongoing struggle for mental health parity with physical health services in the UK underscores the importance of continued advocacy and reform to improve the quality of care available to those in need (Lamb, 2017).