A leading psychiatrist has shared insights on identifying signs of mental health issues in men and boys as the Government rolls out a strategy to combat rising suicide rates.

Recent data shows that male suicide rates in England and Wales have surged to the highest levels since 1999, with it being the primary cause of death for men under 50. To address this, the UK’s inaugural Men’s Health Strategy has been launched to address critical concerns like suicide, alcohol misuse, and problem gambling.

According to government reports, men exhibit higher tendencies towards smoking, drinking, gambling, and substance abuse while being less inclined to seek assistance. A staggering three-quarters of suicide deaths are male, with the age group of 50-54 experiencing the highest suicide rates.

Consultant psychiatrist Dr. Paul Wallang has outlined key guidance for individuals concerned about a man or boy’s well-being. Dr. Wallang emphasized that societal norms often pressure males to suppress emotions and self-reliance, leading to feelings of shame when facing mental distress.

The new government initiative, inaugurated on International Men’s Day, acknowledges the specific challenges men face and aims to address the existing health disparities. Health Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted the pressing need for comprehensive actions to tackle the health issues affecting men and boys.

Dr. Wallang, the healthcare director at Clinical Partners, highlighted the reluctance of many men to seek help due to feeling inadequate or struggling to articulate their feelings. Recognizing early warning signs and initiating mental health support before reaching a crisis point is crucial, he emphasized.

Friends, family members, and colleagues can play a pivotal role in suicide prevention by observing subtle changes and behaviors. Dr. Wallang stressed the importance of noticing shifts in mood, energy levels, or behavior as early indicators of distress.

The government has pledged £3.6 million over three years for suicide prevention projects tailored to middle-aged men in high-risk communities. Additionally, initiatives like the Premier League’s Together Against Suicide campaign and efforts to address the dangers of alcohol-cocaine interactions have been launched to combat escalating health risks.

Efforts to raise awareness about the perils of excessive gambling are also a key focus of the Department of Health’s initiatives. Samaritans, a mental health charity, reassured that with proper support, individuals experiencing mental health crises can overcome suicidal thoughts and make a full recovery.

For emotional support, Samaritans offer a 24-hour helpline at 116 123, email support at jo@samaritans.org, in-person visits to local branches, or online chat services for those in need.