The male midlife crisis has often been a subject of humour. People joke about how someone ‘must be going through a midlife crisis’ when they seem to do something out of character or buy themselves an expensive luxury item.
The UK statistics for the male midlife crisis seems to have decreased over the years, now with 1 in 10 men experiencing it typically between the ages of 35 – 50 years old.
“Tired Man Sitting on Bed” (CC BY 2.0) by Mic445
However, unfortunately the symptoms that come with the male midlife crisis can be quite extreme, increasing the risk of the effects on the mental health of the sufferers. It is not recognised by medical professionals as a disorder or condition, and therefore men are less likely to step forward and ask for help, when perhaps they really need it.
Studies show that the male midlife crisis can bring about feelings of depression, anxiety, insecurity and lack of motivation. It can affect not only how the man feels mentally and emotionally in themselves, but it can also affect their marriage, relationships, work and family. In extreme conditions, a man may make decisions which completely changes their life, and not often for the better.
The male midlife crisis has been associated with adultery, divorce, drastic career changes, purchasing expensive items that they probably cannot afford, and many more stigmas. But why does it happen and how does it really make men feel? Often men suffering from a midlife crisis have an overwhelming feeling that they have lost their identity, that they are getting older with too many responsibilities such as family that relies on them for financial and emotional support. They may have lost parents and feel overawed with the fact that they are now the oldest generation in the family tree. Stress is a big factor too and is often the trigger to a midlife crisis.
“Loving couple lying in bed” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by LyndaSanchez
Stress is one of the most common causes for people taking time off work and depression can be a widespread result of stress. The UK Mental Health Awareness Week was 12th – 18th May this year, and a father from Culcheth started a mental health awareness campaign in March, inspired by mental health campaigners Mind. Paul Chisnall set up ‘Take off the Tape Challenge’, encouraging people to tape a piece of paper over their mouth, with the words of what makes them feel most stressed or anxious. His aim was to remove the shame attached to stress and anxiety that people feel, encouraging them to speak up and be open about their fears. He had successful backing from many celebrities including CBBC presenter Ben Shires who taped ‘Workload’ to his mouth, showing the most prominent cause of his stress and anxiety.
The NHS is trying to allocate more budget to mental health awareness and support, as it is becoming an increasing concern that affects not only individuals but also the workplace. The symptoms of the male midlife crisis range from mood swings, lack of concentration, energy or motivation, loss of sex drive and problems with sleep, to extreme feelings of sadness and depression. Medical professionals will refer patients for counselling or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) which will support sufferers through this time, and many find it very helpful. If you are experiencing extreme feelings of stress, anxiety and depression, seek help from your GP.
