Men's health: How men can improve their mental health

The Frankfurt Network for Suicide Prevention (Frans) aims to raise awareness of men's mental health with its "Man Can" information day. "With easily accessible services, we want to reduce anxieties and encourage men to talk about their struggles, accept support, and focus on their own mental health," says Inga Beig, one of the event's organizers.

According to data from the Federal Statistical Office in Wiesbaden, more than 10,000 people in Germany ended their lives by suicide last year. Men accounted for by far the largest share (71.5 percent). In Frankfurt, according to city officials, the figure is as high as 80 percent.

"The reasons for this are manifold. One of them is that men often have less awareness of their mental health and are significantly less likely to seek help when they have problems," says Frans. "Often out of fear of being judged. As a result, everyday stresses, career crises, or relationship problems often remain unspoken."

The free information day on November 8th at Frankfurt City Hall is intended to encourage men to speak openly about their mental health and to develop strategies for everyday life.

It will be opened by entertainer Harald Schmidt , patron of the German Depression Foundation and Suicide Prevention. The program includes lectures, workshops, and personal accounts. There will also be information booths, for example from the Alliance Against Depression and the Protestant addiction counseling service.

But what can men actually do for their mental health? It's helpful to learn to recognize and accept their own feelings, to talk about problems, and to seek support – either privately or professionally, says Beig. "A healthy balance between work, leisure, and relationships, sufficient sleep, exercise, and conscious stress reduction are also important. Seeking help is a way to regain control and strength."

© dpa-infocom, dpa:251103-930-241550/1