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Life Matters - Separate stories podcast

Stoicism and its link to the men’s mental health crisis

Feb 17, 2025
Vyom Sharma, a Melbourne-based GP and commentator on health, discusses the significant rise in suicide rates among young men and how cultural attitudes, like the revival of stoicism, influence their mental health. He highlights the dangers of stoicism as a standalone approach, arguing for the necessity of empathy and community support. Sharma underscores the importance of open dialogue and alternative strategies in addressing men's mental health, emphasizing the need for cultural adaptation in therapy to reduce stigma and foster understanding.
09:47

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Stoicism can perpetuate societal norms that discourage men from expressing vulnerability, potentially exacerbating their mental health struggles.
  • Initiatives like Movember and Men's Shed foster open discussions on mental health through shared activities, aligning with traditional masculine norms for better engagement.

Deep dives

Mental Health Crisis Among Men

Australia faces a significant mental health crisis, particularly among men, where suicide is the leading cause of death for males aged 15 to 44. Studies reveal that 18% of men report experiencing at least one mental health condition, yet many struggle to seek help. Barriers include not only accessing mental health services but also low engagement during consultations, suggesting a disconnect in how men relate to traditional mental health care. This persistent challenge raises questions about societal norms, such as stoicism, which can discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking support in more appropriate ways.

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