WHY MENTAL HEALTH IS STILL A TABOO AMONG INDIAN MEN
Even today, many people are unclear about what mental health truly means. Often, it is assumed that if a person has basic comforts and appears happy with those around them, they must be mentally healthy. However, mental health is much more than this. It is a combination of how we think, feel, and act, encompassing our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It goes beyond simply not having mental disorders or disabilities.
Mental health issues can arise due to various factors, including environmental stresses, genetics, biochemical imbalances, or a mixture of these. When a person’s mental health is good, they tend to cope better with life’s challenges and generally experience greater happiness. Still, this does not mean they live without stress or difficulties.
In India, mental health problems commonly begin between the ages of 14 and 24. Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders are some of the most frequent conditions faced by young people. While these may not always be viewed as life-threatening illnesses, they affect a significant portion of the population approximately one in five individuals. Despite this, mental health remains one of the most neglected areas of well-being, particularly in Indian society.
The stigma around mental health in India is especially strong among men. Traditional cultural values emphasize strength, emotional control, and stoicism for men, discouraging them from openly discussing emotional struggles. The ideal of masculinity is often tied to being resilient and unemotional, and expressing vulnerability is seen as weakness. This cultural expectation forces many men to suppress their feelings, which can worsen mental health problems and prevent them from seeking help.
In addition to cultural pressures, Indian men face the burden of being the primary providers for their families. The societal emphasis on financial success and family honour makes admitting to mental health struggles difficult, as it may be seen as a personal failing or damage to the family’s reputation. This further silences men who might need support.
Another challenge is the lack of adequate mental health infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. While urban centres are gradually improving access to mental health services, many smaller towns and villages still lack professional support. Combined with social stigma, this leaves many men feeling isolated and without resources. Mental health care options are often expensive or far away, making treatment inaccessible for many.
The fear of judgment and failing to meet societal expectations keeps many men from reaching out, resulting in silent suffering. However, there are signs of progress. Awareness of mental health has grown, especially among younger generations, partly due to schools requiring counsellors and advocacy by professionals, celebrities, and activists. These efforts are helping to break down barriers and encourage open conversations.
In conclusion, the stigma around mental health among Indian men is deeply rooted in traditional gender roles, societal expectations, and insufficient healthcare support. Changing this requires a cultural shift in how masculinity is viewed, better access to mental health resources, and encouraging open dialogue. Teaching boys and men to embrace vulnerability and seek help when needed is essential. Only through these changes can the mental health of Indian men receive the attention and care it deserves.
-With inputs from Dr. Priyadarshini Deo, Counsellor - Oncology, Palliative Care, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai