Men's mental health: a silent crisis in the society
Over the recent years, there has been more focus on men's mental and physical health in Estonia. Men are often used to keeping their problems bottled up, feeling pressure from the society to appear strong and invulnerable. Jevgeni Timoštšuk, who organises men’s discussion groups, admits that there is an increasing understanding that mental well-being requires the same careful attention as physical health.
Statistics show that men's mental health problems are a serious issue in Estonia. According to the National Institute of Health Development, male suicide rate is one of the highest in Europe, indicating the need to raise awareness and provide initiatives that support men. A similar pattern is also seen in the Nordic countries, but more has been done there at the national level to improve the situation: mental health issues are more openly discussed in the media and education system, and support services are more accessible.
"Men's mental health issues are a complex and multifaceted topic," says Jevgeni Timoštšuk, who wants to break outdated beliefs with his activities and offer men a supportive and safe environment where they can share their feelings and evolve. "Societal pressure to be strong and unemotional has led many men to suppress their feelings, which in the long run can lead to emotional burnout. Many men suffer from anxiety, depression and a feeling of loneliness, but they often lack a safe support network to share their problems with.”
Social isolation is one of the biggest detriments to men's mental health. According to Timoštšuk, it is often difficult for men to find a trusted community where they can openly express their feelings. One possible solution could be men's discussion groups, which create an environment where complex topics can be discussed and life experiences shared. This will help keep both mental and physical health in balance.
Men's discussion groups – a step towards self-discovery and building a support system
Over the last few years, men's discussion groups have become an important initiative that allows for open communication and both receiving and providing support. "For example, the importance of men's discussion groups in Europe and the United States has grown significantly because groups like this create an environment where emotions can be freely expressed and society's expectations can be forgot about for a moment," says Timoštšuk. These discussion groups are particularly valuable because they help reduce social isolation and feelings of loneliness and develop deep and supportive relationships with other men.
Timoštšuk's goal is to create a community of men in Estonia that encourages self-discovery and talking about mental health issues. Men's discussion groups allow men to take steps to improve their mental well-being by becoming more aware that taking care of themselves is healthy and necessary, not a sign of weakness.
Mental health support in Estonia, and its impact on the community
Even though men's mental health issues are receiving increasing attention in Estonia, there is still much to be done to provide support and reduce the stigma. Organisations operating in Estonia, such as MTÜ Peaasjad and the Estonian Coalition for Mental Health and Well-being (VATEK), offer resources, counselling, and therapy to anyone with mental health issues.
Timoštšuk admits that he, too, started working with mental health issues out of personal need: “When I first faced a mental health problem, I realised that there were few organisations and communities in Estonia that focused specifically on men.” With this in mind, he decided to study to become a mentor for men's discussion groups. "I’m glad that many companies have also started to pay attention to the issue." For example, in November I will be collaborating with Prisma and using their platforms to share practical tips that will help men maintain their mental and physical health." It is a small step that can brighten someone's day, particularly in the cold and dark autumn.
Healthy body, healthy mind: daily habits that support well-being
Taking care of your mental health requires establishing daily habits and creating stability for your body and mind. Jevgeni recommends exercising regularly, doing breathing exercises, and finding activities that bring you joy and help take your mind off your everyday worries. Hobbies, such as crafts, music or cooking, provide an opportunity to focus on something other than your daily responsibilities, and nurture your sense of creativity as well.
He also emphasises the importance of healthy sleep and nutrition. Good sleep and a balanced diet help reduce stress and promote a good and stable mood. Also, no-one should be afraid to seek professional help, as psychological support and counselling are often key to achieving mental balance.
The society is changing
According to Timoštšuk, societal awareness of men's mental health has clearly increased and this is having a visible impact. Men are increasingly speaking out about their problems, seeking help, and are willing to admit that dealing with health problems is something completely normal, indicating that a person has taken accountability for their life. Media and social media have played a major role here, providing a platform to raise awareness and encourage the building of supportive communities.
Well-planned support systems and men's discussion groups have allowed many men to gradually discover themselves and dispel the myths surrounding mental health. Hopefully, the rise in awareness of men's mental health will contribute to a society where everyone feels supported and dares to seek solutions to their problems.
In November, Prisma Peremarket will be focusing on men in its communication and social media channels, with the help of experts and influencers, and will be offering tips and advice on how to maintain both physical and mental health, and drawing greater attention to the topic. Men are often used to keeping their problems to themselves, but awareness of the importance of opening up and taking care of themselves is on the rise, and we want to contribute to this. In addition to raising awareness, Prisma offers various discounted products for men to keep their physique in shape as well.