Suicide is a serious public health issue that affects people of all genders and ages. However, research shows that men and women differ in their attitudes towards suicide, risk factors, and methods of suicide. The difference on how men and women view suicide gives great insight into how both groups can be helped.
Suicide rates are higher among men, with men accounting for approximately 75% of all suicides. Societal expectations of strength and independence may contribute to men’s reluctance to seek help for mental health issues, while their preference for lethal methods like firearms and hanging increases the risk of fatality.
On the other hand, women are more likely to attempt suicide than men. However they are less likely to die by suicide. Women may be more likely to use less lethal methods. Those can be methods such as overdose or self-harm, which increases the likelihood of survival. Additionally, women are more likely to seek help for mental health issues. They are also more open to talking about their emotions and feelings.
Although there are differences, both men and women experience stigmatization regarding suicide, as society tends to perceive mental health issues as signs of weakness or personal failure, making it difficult to seek help. This pressure is particularly challenging for men, who may feel compelled to be strong and independent, leading to struggles in asking for assistance.
There are also societal expectations around gender roles and suicide. For example, men are often expected to be providers and protectors. These expectations can create pressure and stress that can contribute to suicidal thoughts. Women, on the other hand, are often expected to be caretakers and nurturers. That can also lead to stress and emotional burden of a different kind.
Additionally, the media often portrays suicide in a gendered way, with men depicted as successful, strong, and determined. Women are often portrayed as helpless and in need of rescue. These stereotypes can further perpetuate stigma and contribute to feelings of shame and isolation for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts.
It’s important to acknowledge and address these gender differences when it comes to suicide prevention and mental health support. Suicide prevention efforts should include targeted outreach and education to men. It should also include efforts to reduce stigma and promote help-seeking behaviors. This can include initiatives that encourage men to talk openly about their emotions and seek support from mental health professionals.
For women, it’s important to address the unique stressors and pressures they face that may contribute to suicidal thoughts. This can include addressing issues such as domestic violence, sexual harassment, and gender inequality. All of these factors can contribute to poor mental health outcomes. In conclusion, men and women differ in their attitudes towards suicide, risk factors, and methods of suicide. However, both face stigma and societal pressures that can contribute to feelings of shame and isolation. Suicide prevention efforts must address these gender differences and work to reduce stigma and promote help-seeking behaviors for all individuals.
In conclusion, men and women differ in their attitudes towards suicide, risk factors, and methods of suicide. However, both face stigma and societal pressures that can contribute to feelings of shame and isolation. Suicide prevention efforts must address these gender differences and work to reduce stigma and promote help-seeking behaviors for all individuals.
Read more on the differences between how men and women view suicide:
1. “Differences in Suicide Among Men and Women”. This article describes the gender paradox for suicide.
https://www.verywellmind.com/gender-differences-in-suicide-methods-1067508
2. “Gender differentiation in methods of suicide attempt”. This study compares methods used for the different genders.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3539603/
3. “A cross-national study on gender differences in suicide intent” This article discusses the association between suicide intent
and gender. https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-017-1398-8