Mental Health Support and Resources in Pennsylvania for Men’s Health Month

In June, Men’s Health Month is celebrated across the country with screenings, health fairs, media appearances, and other health education and outreach activities. But while some of these activities focus on men’s physical health, we want to raise awareness that mental health is also an essential part of men’s health.  

When it comes to mental health, anyone can be impacted. Across the country, around 1 in 6 million males are affected by depression per year. That is just one component of mental health. In Pennsylvania, the rate of suicide for men is 3.6 times the rate for women. Men’s Health Network points out the key risk factors for suicide including loss (relational, social, work, or financial), family history of suicide, history of child maltreatment, history of depression, history of mental disorders, history of alcohol and substance abuse, feelings of hopelessness, local epidemics of suicide, social isolation due to bullying and other factors, and unwillingness or inability to seek help for mental health issues or suicidal thoughts. 

Now more than ever, with the impact of the Corona Virus on mental health, it is critical to get the resources and support needed to work through mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, suicide, self-harm and more. As Ana Fadich Tomsic, MPH, CHES, Vice President, Men’s Health Network shared “Communities around the globe are becoming aware of the devastating effect COVID-19 has on men and recognize that this June is the ideal time to encourage them and their loved ones to stay safe and seek early treatment when needed.” 

Mental Health America put out a quick primer on the state of mental health for men: 

If you or someone you love is in need of help there are numerous resources throughout PA there are numerous helpful resources 

• Our affiliate organizations offer a range of services throughout the state, including options like peer support or individualized care. 
• If you’re not sure where to start, we can also help you find individualized services by connecting you to a health Navigator.  
• Additional resources in PA include: 

PA Support & Referral Helpline 
1-855-284-2494 (TTY: 724-631-5600)

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Línea Nacional de Prevencióndel Suicidio: 1-888-628-9454

Crisis Text Line: Text “PA” to 741-741 

Veteran Crisis Line: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990

There are other opportunities to connect to resources online: 

• CDC, Stress and Coping (Available in Multiple Languages). A rich source of information and resources for reducing your own stress as well as information for parents, responders, and people released from quarantine. 
• National Alliance on Mental Illness COVID-19 Resource and Information Guide. NAMI created a document to help guide individuals with specific questions about mental health situations especially related to the COVID-19 crisis, which is a great starting point for those who are particularly impacted by the international pandemic. 
• Man Therapy.  A site developed for men to talk about topics such as depression or other mental health using a unique blend of humor and evidence to help men learn how to better talk about their issues—and get the help they need.  
• Big White Wall offers a safe, online support environment guided by trained mental health professionals to provide support for those suffering from mental health issues.
   

Be sure to Contact Us for more resources or if you need assistance.