Doctors warn masculinity leads to loneliness in men

Shocking cases of suicide reported in the past few days have brought the spotlight on how struggles of several men with mental illness go unnoticed. It turns out that men kill themselves 3.5 times the rate at which women do and are less likely to seek help.

The tragic death of Anthony Bourdain should serve as a reminder to men about the importance of mental health to their survival. Doctors warn that masculinity prevents men from being reflective about their own emotions and this leads to a profound sense of loneliness.

If men are not able to respond to loneliness, they try to eliminate it by acting macho or acting out in a dangerous manner. An expert suggests that people should take a subtle approach while talking mental health with men.

Feeling hopelessness, trapped, withdrawing from people and having severe mood swings are signs to look out for.