BETWEEN SILENCE AND STIGMA: SOCIOCULTURAL BARRIERS TO MEN SEEKING MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

Abstract

Understanding mental health as a multifactorial phenomenon that cuts across historical, social, and cultural aspects, it is necessary to deepen discussions about masculinities because, despite high rates of mental illness, suicide, and substance use, there is low demand among men for psychological support services. Given this scenario, this study is justified by the need to understand the sociocultural factors that contribute to male absenteeism in these spaces and to reduce these figures. This is a literature review that seeks to gather and critically analyze the barriers that prevent men from seeking professional help, understanding that the very construction of hegemonic masculinity is harmful to everyone. Thus, we recognize that the main barriers that exist in society must be modified and rethought so that there are more practices that promote well-being and mental health for men.