Dr. Ramaswamy Viswanathan, president of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), shares the lifestyle changes men can make to encourage holistic health and positive functioning.
Ramaswamy Viswanathan, M.D., Dr.Med.Sc., DLFAPA
President, American Psychiatric Association. Professor and Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, N.Y.
In your opinion, are there unique mental health challenges that men face today compared to other populations, and why might these differ from challenges faced by women?
That’s an important question. Men’s mental health has often been neglected, partly due to traditional cultural norms that label vulnerability in men as weakness. Mental health issues are universal, but because men are often reluctant to talk about them, they may not realize how prevalent these challenges are. This silence cuts them off from resources that could help. Additionally, instead of seeking treatment, men sometimes resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance use or overeating, which can send them on a spiral toward further deterioration.
Why do you think men are more hesitant to seek help for mental health issues? Is it purely due to stigma, or are there other factors at play?
Stigma is a significant factor, but it’s also a systemic issue. Society hasn’t focused enough on men’s mental health, so there’s a lack of awareness and resources geared toward it.
Are there specific warning signs in men that friends or family members should be aware of?
Yes, this is critical, especially since men often don’t openly share their emotions. Look for substantial deviation from one’s usual behavioral pattern. We encourage people to “Notice, Talk, Act” — notice any shifts, talk to the men in your life, and encourage them to share what’s troubling them. Men might become irritable, isolate themselves, or turn to substances, which can worsen their condition. Intervening early and suggesting professional help is key.
Could you expand on the lifestyle changes men can adopt to improve their mental health?
Absolutely. Lifestyle changes are powerful, and many factors work synergistically. Social connectedness is crucial, as men often lack the social networks that women have for emotional support. Physical activity also significantly benefits mental health — exercise can be as effective as conventional treatments for moderate depression. If men exercise with a friend, they’re more likely to stick with it, strengthening social bonds and promoting mental well-being. Tennis, golf, team sports, and dancing have such benefits.
If men are struggling with substance use, I recommend seeking professional help, as dependency can alter brain chemistry, making it harder to quit without assistance. Managing stress involves changing either the environment or our response to it. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or activities like yoga can help. These practices often blend physical activity with mindfulness, amplifying their benefits.
How does a man’s sense of purpose or identity impact his mental health?
Having a sense of purpose is important, although it doesn’t need to be grand. Many men derive their identity from their jobs or financial success. While a stable income is important, finding a job that feels meaningful can make a big difference. It’s also beneficial to find purpose in everyday activities, relationships, and helping others — altruism is linked to better mental health and benefits society as well.
How can family members, friends, or coworkers best support men who are struggling with mental health? Should the approach differ from supporting women?
The first step is to encourage men to seek help, even if it’s just a single visit to a mental health provider. Often, this initial step can dispel unfounded fears about treatment. There’s a lot of helpful information online, but it’s essential to rely on credible sources. The APA’s website, psychiatry.org, and the APA Foundation’s site, apaf.org, are good places to start for reliable resources.
