Real Life Real Faith Men of Faith July/August | Seite 5

JULY/AUGUST MEN OF FAITH most common areas of concern. But then again, many men suffer from quite a few other mental health situations from high blood pressure, sickle cell anemia, and irregular heart beats, commonly called arrhythmia, and being in a depressed state is all too common. To make this article appreciative and meaningful, know that major psychological studies have reported various forms of racism, including a misrepresentation in economic status as a salient issue where themes that present stumbling blocks on how Black men are perceived for equal parity among peers, and those from other persuasions are prevalent. Owning up to the possibility of having symptoms of mental disorder often keeps many men from seeking the help necessary from it escalating. It’s always that macho feeling that tend to do us in, It goes against what we’ve always had in our minds of how we are meant to be strong able-bodied men capable of handling any and everything effecting our livelihoods…and if we falter, we don’t want it to be a signal that we are weak. I talk to many of my peers and they are like, “I’m okay, there is nothing wrong with me.” But more often than not we’re NOT okay! We then hold things inside until it is much too late. In my mind, I’m indeed my brother’s keeper willing to lend my support. But how many will bite the bullet and step forward weathering the storms of stigma and socio-economical angst? Probably not too many if trends are taken seriously. Needless to say, common myths and stigma the surround depression create pain and confusion, and can keep people from getting proper FEATURE treatment in a timely manner. The Atlanta Center for Disease Control in ongoing reports maintains that Black men are slow to get evaluated for mental health issues. My research tells me that there are different reasons preventing African American men from seeking treatment and receiving quality care. Lack of information, and misunderstanding about mental health only makes it worse. Ignorance doesn’t have to be bliss when there’s a plethora of information available to educate and stimulate a new lease on life for those dealing with unstable health conditions. Many can’t own up to problems and won’t talk about them. Believe it or not, I’ve talked to a few that mental anguish is a personal weakness that is enhanced with ridicule and being less than the whole that a man should be. Thus, they’re reluctant to discuss issues and seek treatment because of shame and the stigma associated with mental deficiencies. I’m not remiss to admit that many of us lack information about it all…and to some it’s not always clear where to find help when you need it most. Of course there are quite a few other issues that fail to allow men to know how important it is to do what is needed to help as opposed to hinder. Be it from finding the right provider, socio-economic factors, homelessness and even suicidal tendencies. I’m taking this business of mental health serious enough to devote time and dedication to provide and share mental health awareness in my extended communities, be it online virally, or through other clinical methods. Part two of this series will deal with how to deal with depression and finding ways to put more pep in your step, and more glide to your stride. Stay tuned!