Middle-Aged Men's Experiences of Mental Health and Suicide

Healthwatch Essex undertook research into middle aged men and suicide to understand their experiences, what contributes to suicidal behaviour and how prevention support could be improved.  They interviewed 9 men.

The men reported that various events, experiences in their lives and cumulative pressures contributed to their development of suicidal thoughts.  They experienced various types of pressure, including societal burden, stigma around mental health, life events, work life and the accumulation of pressure. The participants felt that men’s role in society and attitudes to gender roles had changed, but they felt bound by traditional views of masculinity when it came to seeking help. 

The men’s failure to speak about their distress heightened feelings of worthlessness.  They couldn’t imagine a positive future and viewed themselves as a burden on their family and friends.  They felt that suicide was the solution to their pain and would relieve their families of their burden.