Three Good Reasons I Believe Men Should Keep Check on their Mental Health

Roger Whittler

One prominent theory on mental health maintains a central focus on the Cognitive Triad. The Cognitive Triad simply put, examines a person’s views of themselves, the world (environment), and their future. The examination attempts to uncover constant negative thoughts in regard to any one of the three triads. Individuals holding these negative views can point to many facts and situations that prove the negativity. These negative views can be very stubborn. A person holding these views will often say, “I am terrible. The world is evil, and the future is full of failure.” The only problem is – they ignore or minimize all of the evidence to the contrary.

The Cognitive Triad gives us three good reasons why men should keep check on their mental health.

• A negative view of ourselves leads to self-destructive behaviors.
• A negative view of the world leads to stress and alienation from others.
• A negative view of our future leads to hopelessness.

The first step is to carefully examine our own views regarding the Cognitive Triad, and determine if our views are negative and if so, are we maximizing the negative evidence and minimizing the positive. If we find ourselves stuck in this negative rut, seek help from a professional to discuss these views and the evidence that justifies them.

While it is important for men and women to be aware of their own mental health and how these negative views can impact their mental health and the mental health of others, it is especially important for men and this is why. Men are less likely to seek out help or support for mental health concerns and less likely to address them. Men have also reported more frequently they do not have a support system whereby they feel comfortable discussing depression symptoms.   

June is Men’s Month – the gap in mental health outcomes for men does not need to be this way. We have the ability within ourselves to be more open and willing to seek appropriate treatment when needed. Let’s tackle this problem head-on. For resources on mental health and finding a professional, visit Counseling.org.

Roger Whittler,

LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor

NCC, National Board-Certified Counselor