occurring at a rate of 3 to 1 in comparison
to females. Studies have
shown that many
men get involved
in substance abuse
due to traumatic or
stressful life events
including unemployment,
divorce and
death.
High rates of substance
abuse are
observed in certain
sub-groups, including
veterans as well
Evidence shows
that men are less
likely than women to
utilize mental health
services—especially
minority groups such
as black, latino and
asian men.
as Native Americans, implying the
need for targeted interventions in
these groups.
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE
Evidence shows that men are less
likely than women to utilize mental
health services. This is especially so
for minority groups such as Black,
Latino, and Asian men, who have
much lower utilization rates than
white men, as well
as their female
counterparts.
There are many
possible reasons
to explain this, but
one suggested reason
is that formal
mental health services
are not in-line
with the needs of
men.
WHAT CAN BE DONE?
Initially, men’s health should be
acknowledged as both a health and
social issue with focus placed on
situations such as divorce and unemployment.
Additionally, male-specific
choices in mental health options and
health departments should create specific
strategies to address this issue.
At Higher Risk for SUBSTANCE ABUSE
ALCOHOL
DEPENDENCY
About 1 in 5 men
develop alcohol
dependency at some
time in their lives.
GAY & BISEXUL MEN
Homosexual men
are more likely to
have higher rates of
substance abuse than
heterosexuals.
MALE MILITARY
VETERANS
Male veterans show
almost twice the rate
of alcohol and drug
use as women.
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